New Delhi: The diplomatic row between Canada and India has led to reactions not just from the United States, which called Canada’s allegations against India “extremely serious,” but also countries like United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand – which together form the ‘five eyes’ intelligence network.
The row stems from Canada’s allegation that Indian government agents were involved in killing a pro-Khalistan activist in Canada in 2023. India and Canada have expelled six of each other’s diplomats, including their top envoys.
As The Wire has reported, US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller said at the October 15 press briefing:
“When it comes to the Canadian matter, we have made clear that the allegations are extremely seriously – serious, and they need to be taken seriously, and we wanted to see the Government of India cooperate with Canada in its investigation. Obviously, they have not chosen that path.”
The UK too has reacted.
A statement by Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office – the British foreign office – on the ongoing Canadian investigation linked to India says:
“We are in contact with our Canadian partners about the serious developments outlined in the independent investigations in Canada. The UK has full confidence in Canada’s judicial system. Respect for sovereignty and the rule of law is essential.”
“The Government of India’s cooperation with Canada’s legal process is the right next step.”
The statement comes after a telephone call between the UK prime minister, Keir Starmer, and his Canada counterpart Trudeau, on October 15. In a statement on the call, Downing Street had said the two “discussed recent developments regarding allegations under investigation in Canada. Both agreed on the importance of the rule of law. They agreed to remain in close contact pending the conclusions of the investigation.”
In a statement, a spokesperson of Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, has said, “Australia has made clear our concerns about the allegations under investigation in Canada, and our respect for Canada’s judicial process.”
“Our position of principle is that the sovereignty of all countries should be respected and that the rule of law should be respected,” it added.
However, in a routine interaction with journalists, Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese – when asked about the diplomatic row and whether he has spoken, or plans to speak with Trudeau about this – refused to address the issue head on.
“I speak with the Prime Minister of Canada all the time. And what I do in my relationships with international leaders is I have proper discussions with them and that’s how we get things done. And that’s why – one of the reasons why my Government has been so effective in international diplomacy,” Albanese said.
New Zealand was the ‘five eyes’ partner which reportedly reacted first. The country’s foreign minister and deputy prime minister Winston Peters posted the statement on X, noting that the criminal conduct was “alleged” but if proven, could be “very concerning.”
“New Zealand has been briefed by Canada about its recent announcements on ongoing criminal investigations into violence and threats of violence against members of its South Asian community.
“The alleged criminal conduct outlined publicly by Canadian law enforcement authorities, if proven, would be very concerning.
“At the same time, we do not comment on the details of ongoing criminal investigations, in New Zealand or abroad, other than to note that it is important that the rule of law and judicial processes be respected and followed.
“New Zealand has a diverse population, with large communities with cultural connections to a broad range of countries from across Asia, the Pacific and Europe. We expect all such communities to act, and be treated, lawfully and with respect.”
