The United States and Britain have thrown their support behind Canada amidst a diplomatic tussle with India, urging New Delhi to reconsider its demand for a reduction in Canada’s diplomatic presence. The plea comes after Canada withdrew 41 diplomats in response to allegations of Indian involvement in the June murder of Canadian citizen and Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
While India has labeled Nijjar a “terrorist,” Canada has disputed the claim and has sought Indian cooperation in the murder investigation. Expressing concern over the departure of Canadian diplomats from India, U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller emphasized the importance of maintaining diplomatic relations and urged India to honor its obligations under the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.
Despite their reservations, both the US and the UK have refrained from openly condemning India, citing the country’s significance as a strategic partner in the region, particularly in countering the influence of China. However, the recent statements from Washington and London represent the most direct criticism of New Delhi’s actions in this case so far.
In response to India’s request for a reduction in diplomatic presence, Canada has temporarily suspended in-person operations at consulates in multiple Indian cities, warning of potential delays in visa processing. The US and UK have emphasized the importance of maintaining diplomatic ties to facilitate the resolution of differences, emphasizing the need for cooperation in ongoing investigations, while urging India to uphold the fundamental principles of the Vienna Convention.
