The image of Modi and Trudeau contrasts with the backdrop of steadily worsening India-Canada relations.
Despite tense bilateral relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi briefly engaged with his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau at the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Tuesday. US President Joe Biden also spoke with the two leaders.
US President Joe Biden stepped between Modi and Trudeau as they engaged with him during a group photo.
In a large space at the Museum of Modern Art in Rio de Janeiro, world leaders gathered for the group portrait.
Since Trudeau claimed in September of last year that Indian government officials had connections to the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who was shot dead outside a Surrey gurdwara, India-Canada ties have worsened.
When Canada recently attempted to interrogate the Indian envoy and five additional diplomats as “persons of interest” in regard to Nijjar’s death, the relationship suffered yet another hit.India removed six Canadian diplomats from New Delhi.
Additionally, India has accused Ottawa of doing almost little to halt the actions of advocates of Khalistan who aim to threaten India’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
Attack on Hindu temple in Canada
Pro-Khalistan extremists stormed a Hindu temple outside Toronto, Canada, earlier this month when Indian officials were setting up a consular camp.
Under Modi’s leadership, India condemned the violence and insisted on holding those responsible accountable.
“India’s determination will never be weakened by such violent acts. He commented on X, “We expect the Canadian government to uphold the rule of law and ensure justice.”
