Canadian PM Trudeau Congratulates Modi on Third Term

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau extended his government’s congratulations to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his return for a third term. Trudeau stated that Ottawa is ready to advance the relationship, but emphasized that this would be anchored to the “rule of law.”

In a statement released by the Canadian prime minister’s office (PMO) on Wednesday, Trudeau said, “The Government of Canada congratulates the Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, on his re-election.”

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Trudeau Praises India’s Democracy, Stresses Rule of Law in Bilateral Ties

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau praised the scale and scope of India’s democratic process, highlighting that hundreds of millions of Indian citizens voted over several weeks, making it the largest democratic exercise in the world. He emphasized Canada’s readiness to advance the bilateral relationship, grounded in human rights, diversity, and the rule of law. This statement may reference recent tensions, particularly the killing of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia on June 18, 2023.

Trudeau’s Latest Message to Modi

The June 5 statement from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau differed from his May 23, 2019 message, which included personal congratulations to Narendra Modi and expressed a desire to work together on various issues such as education, innovation, trade, investment, and climate change. The latest message lacked this personal touch, reflecting deteriorating relations since Trudeau’s statement in the House of Commons on September 18 last year about “credible allegations” linking Indian agents to the murder of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar. While Canadian law enforcement has arrested four Indian nationals in connection with the killing, the investigation into India’s involvement continues.

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Trudeau and Modi to Cross Paths at G7 Summit Amid Strained Relations

The two Prime Ministers are expect to encounter each other at the G7 Summit in Apulia, Italy next week, though no formal bilateral meeting is plan. Trudeau has stated his mission at the summit will focus on highlighting “the importance of defending democracy and democratic values, including by countering foreign interference and mis- and disinformation.”