On Friday, India summoned Canadian High Commissioner Nadir Patel with regards to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s statement supporting the farmers’ protest.
In an official press release, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has said that the comments by the Canadian PM, some Canadian cabinet ministers, and Members of the Canadian Parliament on the farmers’ protests in India are unacceptable.
“These comments have encouraged gatherings of extremist activities in front of our High Commission and Consulates in Canada that raise issues of safety and security. We expect the Canadian Government to ensure the fullest security of Indian diplomatic personnel and its political leaders to refrain from pronouncements that legitimise extremist activism,” said the MEA statement.
The MEA also said that if such actions were continued, it could seriously impact the relations between India and Canada.
During a Facebook live event commemorating Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary, Trudeau expressed concern over the farmers’ protest. “I would be remiss if I didn’t start by recognizing the news coming out of India about the protests by farmers. The situation is concerning, and we are all very worried about family and friends. I know that’s the reality for many of you,” said Trudeau, adding that Canada has reached out directly to Indian authorities to highlight Canada’s concerns.
