Trudeau and Modi Discuss Cooperation on ‘Crucial Matters’ During Meeting

June 17, 2024 TruthUSA

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have agreed to address some “important issues,” according to Trudeau.

Meeting at the G7 Summit in Italy last week, the two leaders discussed matters amidst strained relations.

Modi shared a photo of their handshake on June 15 via social media, while Trudeau did not make the meeting public. Despite this, a G7 summit review on the Prime Minister’s social media did not feature Modi. The Prime Minister’s Office did not release any statements regarding the meeting.

During a post-summit press conference on June 15, Trudeau refused to disclose details of his conversation with Modi, emphasizing the sensitivity of the issues they discussed. He conveyed a mutual commitment to collaborate on crucial matters in the future.

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Trudeau didn’t specify who initiated contact with Modi or if any assurances were given regarding India’s cooperation in the investigation of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s killing.

Nijjar was fatally shot outside a gurdwara in B.C. while organizing an unofficial referendum on creating an independent Sikh state from India.

Trudeau mentioned in the House of Commons last September that there were “credible allegations” tying Indian government agents to Nijjar’s murder.

The Indian government dismissed the accusations as “absurd and motivated.” In November 2023, the U.S. revealed thwarting an assassination plot linked to an Indian official, prompting an ongoing investigation by New Delhi.

Suspects in Nijjar’s murder have been apprehended and await trial.

The incident and allegations of Indian involvement have strained bilateral relations during negotiations for a trade agreement between Canada and India.

India holds a crucial role in Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy, given its democratic system and increasing economic, strategic, and demographic significance, contrasting China’s perceived disruptive global influence.

Trudeau refrained from confirming whether he would invite Modi to the next G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alta., following his Italian counterpart’s lead.

“While I understand Canadians’ anticipation for next year’s G7, Italy holds the presidency for the remainder of this year,” Trudeau stated. “I will address future G7 plans once we assume the presidency next year.”

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