Canada Reaffirms Support for India's Territorial Integrity amid Khalistan Debate

Morrison acknowledged the longstanding historical connections between the two countries

Canada has emphasized its respect for India's sovereignty and clarified its stance on the country's territorial integrity in the face of growing diplomatic tensions. Deputy Foreign Minister David Morrison addressed the ongoing discussion surrounding the Khalistan movement. He highlighted that "India's territorial integrity must be respected" in a statement he gave before the Canadian Foreign Interference Commission hearing in Ottawa on October 4.

Tensions between India and Pakistan have been increased by the Khalistan issue, which aims to create an independent Sikh state in India's Punjab region. Although Morrison acknowledged that proponents of Khalistani ideology exist in several nations, including Canada, he reiterated Ottawa's support for an integrated India. Following Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's claims in September of last year that India may have been involved in the death of Canadian national Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who India had declared as a terrorist, ties between the two countries have strained. Claiming that the charges were "absurd," New Delhi voiced concerns over Canada's failure to stop pro-Khalistan activities.

The expulsion of 41 Canadian diplomats by India caused the diplomatic split to widen and complicated relations even more. Morrison acknowledged the longstanding historical connections between the two countries, but pointed out that the Nijjar case had hindered progress, especially in discussions about trade. Canada did, however, convey a wish to settle the disagreement and improve bilateral ties going ahead. Despite present difficulties, both nations continue to be important allies.