Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's planned departure from India was delayed by two days due to a mechanical issue with his aircraft, following the conclusion of the G20 summit in India's capital. The delay prompted both domestic and international reactions, with some mocking the situation on social media.
Mr. Trudeau's visit to India took place in a backdrop of strained relations between Canada and India in recent months. His visit did little to alleviate the tensions, as reported by India Today. Before his trip to Delhi, Mr. Trudeau unexpectedly announced a pause in trade treaty talks between the two nations. The tensions have been fueled in part by protests within Canada's Sikh community, which have become a major point of contention. India has expressed concerns over the activities of Sikh separatists, although it denies any involvement in the murder of a prominent advocate of Sikh independence in British Columbia in June.
During their meeting, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi raised concerns about "continuing anti-India activities of extremist elements in Canada," accusing them of promoting secessionism and inciting violence. In response, Mr. Trudeau's team emphasized the importance of respecting the rule of law, democratic principles, and national sovereignty.
Mr. Trudeau also discussed foreign interference in Canada's affairs with Mr. Modi, highlighting Canada's ongoing investigation into election interference, which includes India among the countries being examined alongside China and Russia.
Some eyebrows were raised when Mr. Trudeau did not attend a weekend dinner for world leaders hosted by Indian President Droupadi Murmu, with no official reason given. Observers also noted that he appeared quick to pull out of a handshake with Mr. Modi.
Mr. Trudeau's activities during the extended stay remain undisclosed, with reports suggesting that he spent the time at his hotel, away from further diplomatic engagements. Neither Mr. Trudeau nor the Indian government have publicly commented on the delay in his return home.
However, an Indian minister did give him an official send-off, wishing him and his entourage a safe trip back home on behalf of Mr. Modi's government.
The delay was attributed to a "maintenance problem" with Mr. Trudeau's aircraft, a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) CC-150 Polaris with the tail number '01'. The Department of National Defence in Canada assured that safety protocols are diligently followed and that a replacement aircraft was being sent to India to retrieve Mr. Trudeau. The RCAF has faced previous issues with this older fleet of aircraft.
This incident marks another instance of travel-related issues for Mr. Trudeau, recalling a 2019 incident when a plane carrying journalists collided with an aircraft chartered for his campaign trail, although he was not onboard at the time.
Published: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-us-canada-66781931
Date Published: Tuesday 12 September 2023
Image courtesy of: Ken Lund
