'Absolute support': Canada says 'there's only one India', amid diplomatic tensions

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Canada has reaffirmed its strong position on India's territorial integrity, marking the first such statement since tensions arose last year following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's allegations of "potential" Indian government involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, one of India's most-wanted terrorists and a Canada citizen.

Acording to a report in the Hindustan Times, the declaration regarding "One India" was intended to clarify Ottawa's stance on Khalistani separatists, many of whom are Canadian citizens. This comment is also viewed as a signal to stabilize India-Canada relations, which have been deteriorating.

Canada's Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs David Morrison appeared before the foreign interference commission in Ottawa and said: "Canada's policy is very clear that India's territorial integrity must be respected. There's one India, and that's been made very clear".

Regarding the activities of pro-Khalistan elements in Canada, he described them as "awful but lawful," noting that while there are things many would prefer not to see, they are protected under Freedom of Speech rights, the HT report said.

Since the Lok Sabha elections earlier this year, when Prime Minister Narendra Modi was elected for a historic third term, Canada has been signaling a willingness to engage with India. Trudeau had said that discussions could resume on "serious issues surrounding national security, the safety of Canadians, and the rule of law."

Last year, India dismissed Trudeau's allegations as "absurd" and "motivated," expressing concern over Canada becoming a hub for pro-Khalistan Sikhs. Canada did not acknowledge this concern; instead, Trudeau stated that Canada would always "defend freedom of expression, conscience, and peaceful protest," while also committing to preventing violence and combating hatred.

As a result, bilateral relations significantly deteriorated, and trade talks between the two nations were disrupted.