Canada-India relations strain under Trudeau: Survey highlights public concerns

39% of Canadians blame Trudeau for fumbling ties with India: Survey

Relations between Canada and India have reached a historic low under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau‘s administration, with diplomatic tensions escalating in recent months. A recent survey by the Angus Reid Institute (ARI) and the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada highlights public dissatisfaction with the management of bilateral ties and uncertain prospects for improvement.

Deteriorating relations and public sentiment

The diplomatic friction between the two countries has grown over issues such as Canada’s stance on Khalistani separatism and India’s strong response to perceived interference in its domestic affairs. These tensions have spilled over into public opinion, with the survey revealing that 39% of Canadians believe the Trudeau government is mishandling ties with India. In contrast, 32% think the government is doing well, while 29% are unsure.

Leadership blamed for the impasse

The survey also underscores the role of leadership in strained relations. Of those surveyed, 39% felt that ties between Canada and India would not improve as long as Trudeau remained in office. Interestingly, 34% held the same view regarding Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, suggesting that blame is unevenly being shared.

Historical context of India-Canada relations

India and Canada have historically shared strong ties, rooted in shared values of democracy, multiculturalism, and robust trade relations. However, recent years have seen growing discord, particularly over issues related to Canada’s position on Khalistani movements, which India views as a direct challenge to its sovereignty. Trudeau’s perceived leniency toward such groups has been a recurring point of contention for New Delhi.

Prospects for change in 2025

Canada is slated to hold parliamentary elections in 2025, offering a potential turning point in bilateral relations. The Opposition Conservative Party, led by Pierre Poilievre, is currently favored to win the election. If Poilievre becomes Prime Minister, many observers believe it could open the door to resetting ties with India, particularly given the Conservative Party’s historically pragmatic approach to foreign relations.

Public opinion reflects uncertainty

The survey results reveal a divided Canadian public on the prospects of mending ties with India. While Trudeau’s leadership is seen as a barrier to improvement by many, a significant portion also views Modi’s leadership as a complicating factor. This division reflects broader uncertainty about how and when the relationship might recover.

A crossroads in bilateral ties

The next few years will be crucial for the future of Canada-India relations. With trade partnerships, diaspora connections, and geopolitical interests at stake, both nations have much to gain from finding common ground. Whether a leadership change in Canada will catalyze this remains to be seen, but the current public sentiment highlights the urgency of addressing the ongoing diplomatic impasse.

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