The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has condemned Canada's decision to block an Australian news outlet that aired a press conference featuring External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Australian counterpart Penny Wong. The move, which the MEA says "yet again highlights the hypocrisy of Canada towards freedom of speech," has resulted in the cancellation of some scheduled consular camps in Canada. Jaishankar's comments during the joint press conference, where he criticized Canada for providing political space to Khalistan extremists, may have prompted the timing of the block, which happened just hours after the event. Canada, along with Australia, is part of the Five Eyes intelligence sharing alliance.
Canada Blocks Australian News Outlet Amidst Diplomatic Row with India
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has strongly condemned Canada's decision to block an Australian news outlet that aired a press conference involving India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and his Australian counterpart Penny Wong. The move has led to the cancellation of certain consular camps in Canada.
Background
The diplomatic row stems from Jaishankar's comments during the joint press conference, where he criticized Canada for providing political space to Khalistan extremists. Khalistan is a separatist movement that seeks to create an independent Sikh state in Punjab, India. Canada has been accused of harbouring and supporting certain individuals affiliated with the Khalistan movement.
MEA's Response
The MEA has stated that Canada's decision to block the news outlet is "yet again highlights the hypocrisy of Canada towards freedom of speech." It also noted that the move came just hours after the press conference, suggesting that Jaishankar's comments may have been the catalyst.
Impact on Consular Services
As a result of the diplomatic tensions, the MEA has announced the cancellation of some scheduled consular camps in Canada. These camps provide essential services to Indian citizens in Canada, such as passport and visa processing.
Top 5 FAQs and Answers
1. Why did Canada block the Australian news outlet? Canada has not provided any official explanation for blocking the news outlet. However, it is believed that Jaishankar's criticism of Canada's support for Khalistan extremists may have prompted the move.
2. What is the significance of the "Five Eyes" intelligence alliance? The Five Eyes is an intelligence sharing alliance between Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The alliance was established during World War II and continues to operate today.
3. What is the history of India-Canada diplomatic relations? India and Canada have generally had cordial diplomatic relations. However, there have been occasional tensions, including over Canada's alleged support for Khalistan extremists.
4. What is the Khalistan movement? The Khalistan movement is a separatist movement that seeks to create an independent Sikh state in Punjab, India. The movement has been accused of violence and terrorism.
5. What are the implications of the diplomatic row for India-Canada relations? The diplomatic row is likely to have a negative impact on India-Canada relations. It could lead to reduced cooperation and increased tensions between the two countries.
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