Modi flags anti-India activities, raises concerns with Trudeau

India on Sunday conveyed to Canada its strong concerns about pro-Khalistan elements promoting secessionism from Canadian soil and inciting violence against Indian diplomats, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi saying mutual respect and trust are essential for progress in bilateralties.

- Rezaul H Laskar

Modi's remarks during a meeting with his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau on the margins of the G20 Summit came on the back of extremist elements organising rallies and protests in support of Khalistan in Canadian cities and targeting Indian diplomatic facilities and officials over the past few months. The Indian side was particularly angered when a float at a recent rally eulogised the assassins of former prime minister Indira Gandhi.

While emphasising that bilateral ties are "anchored in shared democratic values, respect for rule of law and strong people-to-people ties", Modi conveyed India's "strong concerns about continuing antiIndia activities of extremist elements in Canada", the external affairs ministry said in a statement.