Canada Vows to Maintain Strong Trade Ties with India Amid Diplomatic Rift

Despite a deepening diplomatic rift between India and Canada, Canadian Trade Minister Mary Ng reaffirmed her government's commitment to sustaining robust commercial relations with India. On Tuesday, Ng assured Canadian businesses of continued support, emphasizing that Canada's Trade Commissioner Service will remain active in assisting companies operating in India.

"I want to reassure our business community that our government remains fully committed to supporting the well-established commercial ties between Canada and India," Ng stated. She further stressed Canada's dedication to upholding economic links while protecting Canadian citizens and adhering to the rule of law.

Ng acknowledged the challenges posed by the current diplomatic tensions but reaffirmed Canada's stance on defending its sovereignty. "We will not tolerate any foreign government threatening, extorting, or harming Canadian citizens on our soil. We urge the government of India to respect the same principles of law and justice that guide our actions," she said. Despite these firm remarks, Ng also expressed optimism about resolving tensions through dialogue, underscoring Canada's willingness to maintain a valued relationship with India.

The tensions follow a major diplomatic dispute triggered by the murder investigation of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh separatist leader in British Columbia. Najjar, a Canadian citizen labeled a terrorist by India in 2020, became the focal point of the escalating conflict. Both countries have engaged in tit-for-tat expulsions of diplomats, with India expelling six Canadian diplomats and suspending visa services.

Trade between the two nations remains significant, with bilateral trade totaling USD 8.27 billion in the 2022-2023 fiscal year. India is Canada's ninth-largest merchandise trading partner in the Indo-Pacific and 13th globally. Both nations exchange various goods, from Indian pharmaceuticals and machinery to Canadian petroleum products and fertilizers.

Ng's statement reflects Canada's dual focus on maintaining economic stability while addressing the diplomatic crisis. Although the current tensions are significant, the Canadian government remains open to dialogue to ease the strained relationship with India.