'Based on mutual respect': PM Modi replies to Justin Trudeau's 'congratulatory' message

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday expressed gratitude to global leaders for their congratulations following his re-election for a third term. He conveyed to the Canadian Prime Minister his optimism about collaborating with Canada, stressing the importance of mutual understanding and respect for each other's interests.

Following the victory of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's BJP in the Lok Sabha elections on June 6, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau extended his congratulations to PM Modi, emphasising the desire to strengthen the relationship between India and Canada. Trudeau highlighted the importance of human rights, diversity, and the rule of law in anchoring their bilateral ties.



“Congratulations to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on his electoral victory. Canada stands ready to work with his government to advance the relationship between our nations’ peoples—anchored to human rights, diversity, and the rule of law," Canadian PM's office wrote on X.

In response, PM Modi thanked Trudeau for his message and expressed India's readiness to collaborate with Canada based on mutual understanding and respect for each other's concerns.

"Thank you @CanadianPM for the congratulatory message. India looks forward to working with Canada based on mutual understanding and respect for each other's concerns," PM Modi wrote on X.

Tensions have strained the relationship between India and Canada, particularly following the murder of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, Canada, last year. Canada implicated alleged Indian agents in the murder, a claim India has vehemently denied.

India has repeatedly criticised Canada for harbouring anti-India and Khalistani elements. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar recently criticised the Canadian government led by Justin Trudeau for issuing visas to individuals with ties to organised crime for what he termed "political purposes." He accused Canada of legitimising extremism and separatism under the guise of free speech.

Inputs from PTI