Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed sorrow over Dr. Manmohan Singh’s demise, calling his passing a loss for India and the world. While respectful, Trudeau’s tribute to Dr Singh is being interpreted in some quarters as a subtle taunt aimed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, given the current geopolitical context.
Manmohan Singh’s passing is a loss for India and the world. As one of its longest-serving leaders, he transformed the country’s economy, lifted millions out of poverty, and built strong bridges with the world — including Canada.
— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) December 27, 2024
Former Indian PM Dr Manmohan Singh passed away at the age of 92 on Thursday evening at AIIMS, Delhi. He was hurried to the hospital after suffering a sudden loss of consciousness at his residence. The last rites of former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh are to be performed at the Nigam Bodh Ghat in the national capital on Saturday noon.
Known for his humility and intellect, Dr Singh served as India’s Prime Minister from 2004 to 2014 and is credited with transforming the country’s economy during his tenure as Finance Minister in the early 1990s.
Justin Trudeau pays tribute to Manmohan Singh.
Following his extinction, several world leaders paid homage to the veteran politician. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also expressed sadness, calling his passing a loss not just for India but for the world. In a post on social media, Trudeau said, “Manmohan Singh’s passing is a loss for India and the world. As one of its longest-serving leaders, he transformed the country’s economy, lifted millions out of poverty, and built strong bridges with the world — including Canada.”
Also read: ‘Manmohan Singh was my friend, philosopher and guide,’ says Congress leader Sonia Gandhi; VIDEO
While respectful, Trudeau’s tribute to Dr Singh is being interpreted in some quarters as a subtle taunt aimed at Prime Minister Narendra Modi, given the current geopolitical context. His comments target the current economy of India along with poverty issues in several states. Also, his mention of Singh’s approach to building strong partnerships in the world ‘including Canada’ has raised eyebrows.
Trudeau’s remarks come at a time of elevated diplomatic tensions between India and Canada. The strained ties have also impacted trade and people-to-people relations. Bilateral talks on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) have been paused indefinitely and the Indian diaspora in Canada has reported increasing incidents of hate crimes and vandalism targeting Hindu temples.
Strained diplomatic ties between India and Canada
Relations between the two countries have soured following Trudeau’s accusations linking Indian agents to the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India strongly denied the charges, terming them baseless and politically motivated. In retaliation, both nations expelled diplomats and suspended visa services, further increasing tensions.
