22nd October - A cloud of tension seems to hover over India-Canada diplomatic relations. The External Affairs Minister, Dr. S Jaishankar, recently shed light on the growing strains between the two nations. While addressing the audience at the Kautilya Economic Conclave, he candidly expressed that the bilateral ties are currently in a "difficult phase."

The main point of contention appears to be some perceived interference by Canada in India's internal affairs. In response to these challenges, India made a significant move by halting visa services in Canada. Furthermore, a request was made to Canada to downsize its diplomatic representation in India.

Dr. Jaishankar specifically pointed out issues with "certain segments of Canadian politics" as a factor contributing to the strain. The unfolding events indicate a need for open dialogue and understanding to ensure the long-standing relationship between the two countries remains intact.

Safety First: EAM Jaishankar Highlights Security Concerns for Indian Diplomats in Canada

External Affairs Minister, Dr. S Jaishankar, raised a crucial alarm on the safety of Indian diplomats in Canada. He pinpointed a clear violation by Canada of the Vienna Convention, which mandates the security and protection of foreign diplomats. Expressing his concerns, he stated, “the big concern which people have is on visas. And, you know, some weeks ago, we stopped issuing visas in Canada, because it was no longer safe for our diplomats to go to work to issue visas. So their safety and security was the primary reason we had to temporarily stop the issue of visas.”

Such a move by India, a nation known for its diplomatic prudence, underscores the gravity of the situation. The halt in visa services is not just a procedural step but a direct reflection of the lack of confidence in the safety provisions extended to Indian diplomats in Canada.

However, Dr. Jaishankar also gave a glimmer of hope, suggesting that the government is actively monitoring the situation. He expressed optimism, saying, “We’re tracking it very closely. My hope, My expectation is that the situation would improve, in the sense that our people would have greater confidence in being able to do their basic duty as diplomats.” Emphasizing the significance of the Vienna Convention, the minister reiterated that “ensuring safety and security of diplomats is the most fundamental aspect of the Vienna Convention.”

EAM Jaishankar on Vienna convention: - Canada "challenged" Vienna convention by not able to ensure safety of Indian diplomat

The situation serves as a reminder that diplomatic relations are not just about policies and treaties but also hinge crucially on mutual respect and safety assurances. It's now a waiting game to see if Canada addresses these concerns, restoring faith and confidence.

External Affairs Minister, Dr. S Jaishankar, continued to spotlight the safety concerns surrounding Indian diplomats in Canada. He emphasized, “In Canada, our diplomats are not safe. So if we see progress there, I would like very much to resume the issue of visas. My hope, this is something that should happen very, very soon.” The minister's repeated emphasis on the safety of Indian personnel underlines the gravity of the situation.

Dr. Jaishankar also delved into India's decision to ask Canada to reduce its diplomatic presence by 41 personnel in the country. The underlying cause of this move was India's quest for diplomatic parity. The minister highlighted India's concerns regarding the "continuous interference" in its internal affairs by the Canadian side. He reiterated the principles of the Vienna Convention, stating, “Parity is very much provided for by the Vienna Convention, which is the relevant international rule on this.” He further clarified India's stance, saying, “In our case, we invoked parity because we had concerns about continuous interference in our affairs by Canadian personnel.”

The invocation of the Vienna Convention by Dr. Jaishankar sends a clear message about India's commitment to uphold international norms while also safeguarding its interests and ensuring the security of its diplomats abroad. The ball now lies in Canada's court to respond and work towards mending the strained relations.

Dr. S Jaishankar, alluded to the deeper intricacies and undisclosed information surrounding the recent diplomatic tensions between India and Canada. His statement suggested that the full spectrum of reasons behind India's recent decisions concerning Canadian diplomats in the country hasn't been unveiled to the public. He mentioned, “We haven’t made much of that public. My sense is over a period of time more stuff will come out and people will understand why we had the kind of discomfort with many of them which we did.”

This hint at forthcoming revelations adds another layer of complexity to the already intricate India-Canada diplomatic landscape. It's a clear indication that the issues at hand might be more profound than what meets the eye.

Moreover, this comes in the aftermath of Canada's recent decision to withdraw 41 of its diplomats from India. Adding to the tension, Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly criticized India's recent actions, labelling them as “contrary to international law.” Dr. Jaishankar's remarks seem to challenge this narrative, suggesting that there's more to the story that needs to be unraveled.

Dr. S Jaishankar, defended India's stance by highlighting the foundational principles of the Vienna Convention on diplomatic relations. Responding to the Canadian Foreign Minister Melanie Joly's accusation of India violating the convention, he emphasized that the convention explicitly provides for 'parity'. India's decision to invoke this principle was a direct counter to the “continuous interference” from the Canadian side.

Dr. Jaishankar further underscored the importance of the safety and security of diplomats as a cornerstone of the Vienna Convention. He expressed concerns over the challenges faced by Indian diplomats in Canada, stating, “Our people are not safe, our diplomats are not safe.”

Despite the current strain, the minister expressed optimism about the situation, hoping for an environment where Indian diplomats can confidently execute their duties without threats to their safety.

Dr. S Jaishankar, provided a beacon of hope regarding the visa situation between India and Canada. He underlined that the resumption of visa services hinges on the safety of Indian diplomats in Ottawa. Clearing the fog of uncertainty, he stated, “If we see progress in the safety of our diplomats in Canada, we would like to resume issuance of visas there.”

His remarks provide a clear indication of India's stand on the matter and set the stage for potential diplomatic dialogue. As the two nations tread on thin ice, the hope remains that mutual understanding and respect will pave the way for smoother relations in the future.

The ongoing diplomatic tussle between India and Canada offers a glimpse into the intricate dance of international relations. Both nations, bound by the principles of the Vienna Convention, are at a crossroads where mutual respect and adherence to international norms are of paramount importance. While challenges persist, the underlying hope is for a resolution that ensures the safety and dignity of diplomats, fostering an environment of trust and cooperation. The ball is now in the court of diplomatic discussions, and the world watches with bated breath.