Canada has reiterated its unwavering support for India's territorial integrity, marking the first such public statement since the diplomatic tensions between the two countries escalated last year. The tensions arose after Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged the "potential" involvement of Indian government agents in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and one of India’s most-wanted terrorists.

During a hearing before the foreign interference commission in Ottawa, Canada’s Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs, David Morrison, stated, "Canada's policy is very clear that India's territorial integrity must be respected. There’s one India, and that has been made very clear." This declaration is seen as a move to reinforce Ottawa's stance on the Khalistan issue, a matter that has significantly strained bilateral ties.

Addressing the activities of pro-Khalistan elements residing in Canada, Morrison described them as “awful but lawful,” acknowledging that while their actions may be undesirable, they are protected under Canada’s Freedom of Speech laws. The comment was intended to clarify Canada’s position on the separatist Khalistani movement, which has been a longstanding point of contention between the two nations.

This statement comes as Canada signals a desire to stabilize relations with India, which have been deteriorating since Trudeau’s allegations in 2022. Despite those claims, which India firmly rejected as "absurd" and "politically motivated," Canada has been sending signals to mend ties, especially after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi secured his third term in office earlier this year.

In response to Trudeau's earlier comments defending freedom of expression, India had expressed concerns about Canada becoming a hub for pro-Khalistan activities. Bilateral relations continued to suffer, with trade talks between the two countries stalling and tensions rising. In June this year, Canada’s parliament held a moment of silence for Nijjar, further fueling tensions with India, which commemorated the 1985 Air India bombing victims, an attack carried out by Khalistani terrorists.

Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the leader of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force, was shot dead outside a gurdwara in Surrey in June 2022. Canada has since arrested four Indian nationals in connection with the case. India has consistently expressed concerns about separatist elements gaining political space in Canada, attributing this to political interests within the country.

As both nations navigate these complex issues, Canada's recent affirmation of India's territorial integrity may serve as a starting point for rebuilding strained ties.