India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, has spoken out on the ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Canada. Referring to recent incidents, including violence and intimidation directed at Indian diplomats and missions, Jaishankar emphasized that the current situation in Canada should not be regarded as normal.
Speaking during a visit to the United States, Jaishankar addressed several key points:
1. Freedom of Expression and Violence: Jaishankar highlighted that while freedom of expression is vital, it should not extend to incitement of violence. He mentioned that India does not require lessons from others on the concept of freedom of speech, and misuse of freedom for incitement to violence should not be defended.
2. India’s Response: Jaishankar questioned how other countries would react if they faced similar incidents involving their diplomats, embassies, and citizens being intimidated. He asked, “How would you react if you were in my shoes?”
S Jaishankar confirmed that discussions on the issue have taken place with the United States but noted that there are many dimensions to the India-US relationship, not just this issue. He described it as an ongoing conversation.
The External Affairs Minister highlighted the current climate of violence and intimidation faced by Indian diplomats and missions in Canada, emphasizing that such a situation should not be normalized.
3. Suspension of Visa Operations: Jaishankar explained that India had to suspend visa operations to Canada because the Canadian side had made it very difficult for Indian services to operate. He mentioned that this step was taken due to the continuous intimidation of diplomatic personnel in Canada.
India has requested specifics and relevant information from the Canadian side regarding their allegations. Jaishankar reiterated that the allegations made do not represent the policy of the Indian government.
Jaishankar’s statements come amid a diplomatic row sparked by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegation of Indian government involvement in the killing of a pro-Khalistan leader. India has rejected these claims, calling them “absurd” and “motivated.”
The situation underscores the complexities of diplomatic relations between and the need for dialogue to address disputes and concerns.
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