India slams Canada response on diplomats’ withdrawal
The News Freedom
New Delhi, October 20
Canada has withdrawn 41 diplomats from India amid a dispute over the murder of a Canada based slain pro-Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Confirming the development to media, Canada Foreign Minister Melanie Joly, today said that “Canada confirms that India formally communicated its plan to remove immunities unilaterally for all but 21 Canadian diplomats and dependents in New Delhi by October 20. This means 41 Canadian diplomats and their 42 dependents were in danger of having immunities stripped,” Canada Foreign Minister said.
Meanwhile India slammed Canada’s remarks on withdrawing 41 diplomats, adding that “New Delhi rejects any attempt to portray the implementation of parity as a violation of international norms”.
The Ministry of External Affairs also shared by the official statement on the social media platform X.
Giving details in press statement issued by her office, Melanie Joly said that “given the security implications of India’s actions on these Canadian diplomats and their families, Canada has facilitated their safe departure from India”.
“Canada will continue to defend international law, which applies equally to all states. Canada will continue to engage India and remains committed to dialogue as we move forward.” she said.
“Canadians in need of consular assistance in India can still contact the High Commission of Canada in New Delhi at +91 11 4178 2000, or via email at: [email protected]” she said.