Munk Dialogue with Raja Mohan: the Canada-India relationship hits a new low
Dec 3, 2024
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In a captivating discussion, Raja Mohan, a leading Indian foreign policy expert and advisor, examines the recent diplomatic fallout between Canada and India. He unpacks how the expulsion of diplomats and allegations of threats have amplified tensions. Mohan highlights the historical context of these strained relations and emphasizes the necessity for clearer communication. He also explores India’s complex role on the global stage, navigating its relationships with the U.S., China, and beyond, while addressing the challenges of a shifting geopolitical landscape.
The diplomatic tensions between Canada and India highlight the fragility of international relations amidst allegations impacting economic cooperation.
India's balancing act between major global powers demonstrates its strategic quest for autonomy while managing competing interests with the U.S. and China.
Deep dives
Failures of 20th Century Socialism
The discussion highlights the repeated failures of socialism throughout the 20th century, suggesting that it has not succeeded at any point during that time frame. Emphasizing the need to restore dignity to the working class, the argument is made that individuals shouldn't require formal credentials to attain even basic versions of the American dream. This sentiment points to a broader ideological debate about the accessibility of opportunity in society and critiques the barriers that have been erected in the name of formal qualifications. The conversation calls for a reevaluation of how society perceives work and success.
Diplomatic Crisis between Canada and India
The current diplomatic tensions between Canada and India are examined, following allegations from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding Indian diplomats' involvement in criminal activities on Canadian soil. This crisis marks a significant low point in the relationship between the two countries, previously characterized by growing cooperation. Despite this, there remains a strong economic connection, particularly with Canadian pensions investing heavily in India. The conversation notes the need for both parties to navigate these troubling waters carefully to preserve economic ties and to avoid letting domestic political issues dictate foreign relations.
Khalistani Separatism Concerns
The podcast discusses India's perception of the Khalistani separatist movement, highlighting that, while it lacks widespread support within India, it poses serious concerns for the Indian government. This sentiment reflects Delhi's frustration with Canada’s perceived leniency toward Sikh groups that advocate for Khalistani independence, which India views as a threat to its national unity. Although the movement is described as a fringe group, the actions and existence of these separatists have sparked significant political and diplomatic issues between the two nations. The conversation stresses the importance of managing these sentiments to foster better relations in the future.
India's Strategic Position on the Global Stage
India's growing influence on the global stage is addressed, particularly in relation to its balancing act between major powers like the United States, China, and Russia. The discussion reflects India's cautious approach to the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, indicating that while India maintains historical ties with Russia, it recognizes the need for collaboration with the West. The complexities of India's relationships with China are also highlighted, as tensions persist despite diplomatic efforts to ease conflicts along their shared border. Overall, the conversation underscores India's quest for strategic autonomy and its objective to foster stable relations while navigating a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau recently announced that six Indian diplomats were being expelled from Canada due to an alleged campaign to threaten and kill Sikhs on Canadian soil. India responded by sending home six high level Canadian diplomats and issuing a tensely worded statement, accusing Trudeau of initiating and escalating this diplomatic dispute.
Relations between the two countries are - needless to say - at their lowest point in recent memory.
Dr. Raja Mohan, our guest on this Munk Dialogue, is widely recognized as India's foremost foreign policy expert. He is an Adviser to the Council for Strategic and Defense Research in New Delhi and was the founding director of Carnegie India. He speaks to us about the state of India-Canada relations, how to repair this diplomatic spat, and the unique and interesting role India is playing on the world stage as it finds its footing among fellow great powers, most importantly the United States and China.
The host of this Munk Dialogue is Rudyard Griffiths
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This podcast is a project of the Munk Debates, a Canadian charitable organization dedicated to fostering civil and substantive public dialogue - https://munkdebates.com/
Executive Producer: Ricki Gurwitz
Editor: Kieran Lynch
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