- By Anushka Vats
- Mon, 25 Sep 2023 07:49 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Amid the ongoing tensions gripping diplomatic ties with India and Canada, Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair on Sunday called the relationship 'important' and said that adding that their country will continue to pursue those partnerships while the investigation into allegations continues. Blair's remarks came two days after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (local time) said that Washington is "deeply concerned" about the allegations made by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about the Indian government's involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
"We understand that this can be, and has proven to be, a challenging issue with respect to our relationship with India. But at the same time, we have a responsibility to defend the law, defend our citizens, and at the same time make sure that we conduct a thorough investigation and get to the truth," he was quoted as saying by Global News.
He also added that if the allegations are proven true, "there is a very significant concern that Canada will have with respect to the violation of our sovereignty in the murder of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil."
Saying that the US wants to see accountability in the matter, the envoy said it was "important" that the investigation runs its course and leads to the result".
Canada PM Justin Trudeau and Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair (Image Credits: Reuters)
Meanwhile, addressing a news conference in New York City on Thursday, Trudeau failed to present any evidence to back his claims. The Canadian Prime Minister was repeatedly quizzed on the nature of the allegations but stuck to reiterating that there were "credible reasons" to believe that India was linked to the death of Nijjar.
However, MEA Spokesperson Arindam Bagchi continued to reject the accusations and aid that Canada has not yet provided any evidence but on the contrary, India is asking Canada to take action against those facing charges related to terrorism.
"We are willing to look at any specific information that is provided to us, but so far we have received no specific information from Canada,"
"From our side, specific evidence about criminal activities by individuals based on Canadian soil has been shared with Canada but not acted upon…Yes, I do think there is a degree of prejudice here. They have made allegations and taken action on them. To us, it seems that these allegations by the government of Canada are primarily politically driven," Bagchi added.
(With inputs from agencies)
