Tensions ease with Canada: India resumes E-Visas for Canadians, PM Trudeau confirms to join virtual G20 summit

India has resumed e-visa services for Canadians after a two-month suspension. The move follows a strained relationship triggered by Canada's alleged sheltering and support for Khalistani terrorists, culminating in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistani extremist, in Canada.

The suspension of visa services was initiated after Nijjar's death, and on November 12, Canadian PM Justin Trudeau accused India of involvement in the killing. This accusation led to the Indian government issuing notices to several Canadian diplomats in India. Trudeau further claimed that India violated the Vienna Convention by expelling 40 diplomats, asserting that Canada sought cooperation to investigate the alleged murder.

Trudeau emphasized the seriousness of the matter, stating that Canada had approached India and other global partners to address the violation of international law and a democracy's sovereignty. He stressed Canada's commitment to upholding the rule of law.

"This is something that we are taking very seriously. We will continue to work with all partners as law enforcement and investigative agencies continue to do their work. Canada is a country that will always stand up for the rule of law because if might starts to make right again, if bigger countries can violate international law without consequences, then the whole world gets more dangerous for everyone," he added.

In a reciprocal effort to de-escalate tensions, Trudeau confirmed his participation in the virtual G20 Leaders' Summit hosted by India. His attendance signifies an attempt to engage in diplomatic dialogue despite the ongoing discord between the two nations.

Trudeau's decision to join the virtual G20 meeting comes amid a two-month diplomatic standoff. Earlier, Canada's Speaker of the Senate, Raymonde Gagne, skipped the Presiding Officers' Summit of Parliaments of G20 nations in Delhi on October 12. The resumption of e-visa services and Trudeau's participation in the G20 summit suggest a mutual interest in addressing the issues and rebuilding diplomatic relations between India and Canada.