India summoned, Friday, Canada’s envoy Nadir Patel, warning him that statements by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Canadian lawmakers on the farmers’ protest could seriously damage bilateral ties.
The external affairs ministry stated that “comments by the Canadian Prime Minister, some Cabinet Ministers and Members of Parliament on issues relating to Indian farmers constitute an unacceptable interference in our internal affairs.”
“Such actions, if continued, would have a seriously damaging impact on ties between India and Canada,” according to an official statement.
The comments by the Canadian leadership had “encouraged gatherings of extremist activities in front of our high commission and consulates in Canada that raise issues of safety and security.”
“We expect the Canadian government to ensure the fullest security of Indian diplomatic personnel and its political leaders to refrain from pronouncements that legitimize extremist activism,” it added.
“I would be remiss if I didn’t start also by recognizing the news coming out of India about the protest by farmers,” Trudeau said during the Facebook interaction organized by Canadian MP Bardish Chagger. “The situation is concerning and we’re all very worried about family and friends.”
“I know that’s a reality for many of you. Let me remind you, Canada will always be there to defend the right of peaceful protest,” he added. “We believe in the importance of dialogue and that’s why we’ve reached out through multiple means directly to the Indian authorities to highlight our concerns.”
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