Jaishankar Criticizes Canada's Diplomatic Double Standards

At the NDTV World Summit 2024, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar criticized Canada for inconsistent diplomatic standards. He highlighted the differing treatment of Indian and Canadian diplomats amid ongoing tensions. Jaishankar noted changing global dynamics, with rising influence of non-Western countries like India and China challenging the traditional West-centric world order.

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, during his speech at the 'NDTV World Summit 2024: The India Century' on Monday, criticized Canada for what he described as double standards in diplomatic practices, amidst the ongoing diplomatic tensions between the nations. He underscored the disparate treatment Indian and Canadian diplomats face in each other's countries.

Speaking on the issue, Jaishankar remarked, "So apparently, the license that they give themselves is totally different from the kind of restrictions that they impose on diplomats in Canada. When we tell them you have people openly threatening leaders of India, diplomats of India. Their answer is freedom of speech." He emphasized the asymmetry in the application of freedom of speech, as Canadian responses seem dismissive when applied to Indian diplomats, yet wary when Indian journalists comment on Canadian affairs.

Further highlighting the shifting focus of international relations, Jaishankar pointed out, "Some time ago you would have said we will deal with Canada later, let's talk about the US. Now for some inexplicable reason, you are saying we will talk about the US later, let's talk about Canada first," indicating a transformation in global priorities and the diminishing centrality of Western powers in favor of rising non-Western nations like India and China.

He continued by discussing broader geopolitical shifts, noting, "The world order after 1945 was heavily Western. What has happened in the last 20-25 years is that there is a rebalancing, a multipolarity." As larger nations assert their perspectives more vocally, the frictions between them and the West become more pronounced, challenging the status quo established post-World War II.

Addressing specific grievances with Canada, Jaishankar accused Canadian authorities of hypocritically alleging 'foreign interference' by Indian journalists, while Canadian diplomats reportedly engage in activities such as profiling Indian military and police officials. He revealed that India had withdrawn its High Commissioner following a controversial inquiry demand from Canada.

(With inputs from agencies.)