Canada India Tensions: Understanding the Recent Strain in Relations

In recent years, tensions between India and Canada have escalated, raising concerns about the impact on their thriving trade relationship. The primary catalyst behind the current escalation of tensions is the activities of Khalistani-supporting organizations. This article delves into the intricacies of this issue, shedding light on its implications for trade and bilateral relations.

G-20 Summit Raises Alarming Issues

During the G-20 summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart, Justin Trudeau, engaged in discussions that revolved around the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani extremist residing in Canada, and allegations against Indian government agents. These topics became central to Trudeau’s concerns during the summit, leading to prolonged discussions.

Trudeau’s Two-Day Delay in India

Justin Trudeau remained in India for two days after participating in the G-20 summit. His extended stay was attributed to a malfunction in his private plane, which forced him to remain grounded in India. However, India has raised suspicions that Canada’s government is failing to address Sikh separatist activities actively.

Disruption of Trade Missions

Following their participation in the G-20 summit, Justin Trudeau announced the suspension of a joint trade mission with India. As of now, the specific reasons behind this decision remain undisclosed. The suspension has halted progress on the trade front between the two nations.

Discussing Concerns

A prominent foreign policy expert noted that India-Canada relations have become “excessively tense.” The Director of the Wilson Center’s South Asia Program suggested that Trudeau utilized this opportunity to directly address his concerns with Prime Minister Modi.

Insights from Michael Kugelman

Michael Kugelman opined on the matter, stating, “I believe that Prime Minister Modi may have used this occasion to inform Trudeau about what’s happening with Sikh leaders in Canada, which could have been an encouragement for Trudeau to raise these concerns.”

Booming India-Canada Trade

In the year 2022, trade between India and Canada thrived. India stood as Canada’s 10th largest trading partner, with exports totaling $4.10 billion during the fiscal year 2022-23. Conversely, Canada exported approximately $4.05 billion worth of goods to India during the same period.

Trade Figures for 2021-22

For the fiscal year 2021-22, India and Canada had traded goods worth $3.76 billion. Imports during this period amounted to $3.13 billion. These figures surged significantly to $8.16 billion for the fiscal year 2022-23.

What Does Canada Import from India?

Canada primarily imports jewelry, precious stones, pharmaceutical products, ready-made garments, organic chemicals, light engineering goods, and iron and steel products from India.

What Does India Import from Canada?

On the other hand, India’s imports from Canada include pulses, newsprint, wood pulp, asbestos, potash, iron scrap, minerals, and industrial machinery. Notably, India’s largest import from Canada is pulses, with an annual consumption of 2.3 million tons.

Conclusion

The recent strains in India-Canada relations, fueled by concerns over Sikh separatist activities, have raised significant questions about the future of their trade partnership. Both nations have benefited from robust trade ties, and their differences must be resolved amicably to avoid adverse economic consequences.