New Delhi: New Zealand, a member of the Five Eyes alliance, has come to Canada’s aid as diplomatic tensions with India escalate.
But it also issued a disclaimer to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s claims about Indian “operatives” involved in criminal activities in Canada, calling them “alleged” but “if proven.” Mentioned.
“The alleged criminal activity outlined publicly by Canadian law enforcement officials would be deeply concerning if proven,” New Zealand Prime Minister Winston Peters said in a statement on Tuesday.
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His statement marks the first time a Five Eyes leader has endorsed Canada.
The Five Eyes is an intelligence alliance between Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Established after World War II, countries in this group regularly share information and coordinate security efforts to protect their national interests.
New Zealand has been briefed by Canada on recent announcements regarding an ongoing criminal investigation into violence and threats of violence against members of the South Asian community.
Alleged criminal activity publicly outlined by Canadian law enforcement authorities is…
— Winston Peters (@NewZealandMFA) October 15, 2024
So far, US, Australia, UK There has been no official response to the escalating tensions between Canada and India.
US Department of State The issue will likely be addressed during Tuesday’s daily press conference.
Australian officials had traveled to New Delhi a few days earlier for secretary-level talks. He emphasized that the two countries are “close friends”. and strong strategic tie.
Prime Minister Trudeau is statement On Tuesday, he defended the Indian government’s decision to expel six Indian diplomats, including High Commissioner Sanjay Verma. Canada’s Prime Minister has summoned six Indian government employees who are involved in activities that threaten public safety in Canada. Initially, Ottawa asked India to waive diplomatic immunity for Verma and other Indian diplomats. However, when New Delhi refused, it decided to expel the diplomats.
India expelled six Canadian diplomats from New Delhi early Monday, expressing strong protest against Canada’s decision to designate Indian diplomats as “persons of interest” in a criminal investigation.
“The rule of law must be respected.”
Peters said in a statement that the Government of Canada was briefed on recent announcements regarding an ongoing criminal investigation into violence and threats of violence against members of the South Asian community.
He said that the rule of law must be respected, but It is unusual for New Zealand to comment on an ongoing criminal investigation.
“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 process are respected and followed,” New Zealand officials said. . The Prime Minister said in a statement:
“New Zealand has a diverse population and a large community. and Cultural connections with a wide range of countries from Across Asia, the Pacific and Europe. We expect all such communities to act and be treated lawfully and respectfully,” he added.
New Zealand has a large Sikh communityty, including Approximately 53,000 members.
(Edited by Madhurita Goswami)
Also read: Canadian police link Indian diplomat to murder, extortion, say Bishnoi gang is collaborating with Delhi
