Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s response to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s congratulatory message highlights India’s stance on bilateral relations. Amid strains in ties, Modi’s message underscores the importance of mutual understanding and respect for each other’s concerns in fostering collaboration between New Delhi and Ottawa.
The diplomatic exchange follows previous tensions stemming from Trudeau’s allegations regarding Indian agents’ involvement in a Khalistani extremist’s killing in British Columbia, which India dismissed as baseless. Modi’s statement indicates India’s willingness to engage constructively, provided that Canada addresses India’s apprehensions regarding the presence of pro-Khalistani elements on Canadian soil. Despite challenges, both countries seek to uphold shared values of human rights, diversity, and the rule of law in their relationship, as articulated by Trudeau’s message of readiness for collaboration anchored in these principles.