India resumes e-visa services with Canada ahead of G20 summit

India has recently restarted its e-visa services for Canadian nationals, as reported on Wednesday. This development comes just ahead of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s participation in the Virtual G20 Leaders’ Summit. The renewed e-visa service encompasses various visa categories, including entry visas, business visas, medical visas, and conference visas.

This move suggests a potential improvement in relations between India and Canada, particularly considering Trudeau’s virtual presence at the G20 meeting hosted by India. The summit, scheduled for Wednesday, will be chaired by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who announced it during the closing session of the New Delhi G20 Summit on September 10. Leaders from all G20 member countries, the Chair of the African Union, nine Guest countries, and Heads of 11 International Organizations have been invited. Confirmed participants include world leaders such as Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Trudeau’s participation in the virtual summit is significant given the strained relations between India and Canada in September. At that time, the Canadian PM alleged the involvement of a “foreign agent” in the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India strongly denied these allegations and urged Canada to provide evidence. New Delhi also called on Ottawa to take measures against Khalistani elements in Canada and ensure the security of Indian diplomatic missions.

In response to the tensions, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) in India temporarily suspended visas for Canadian citizens in September, citing “security threats” to its high commission and consulates in Canada. However, earlier this month, New Delhi took a step towards easing some of the visa restrictions on Canadians.

The resumption of e-visa services for Canadians ahead of the G20 summit indicates a positive diplomatic development. It suggests a potential willingness on both sides to engage in dialogue and address the issues that led to the deterioration of relations. The participation of leaders from major countries, including China and Russia, adds another layer of significance to the summit.

As diplomatic ties improve, it is essential to recognize the context of the strained relations between India and Canada. The allegations made by Trudeau in September created tensions, and the demand for evidence added to the complexity of the situation. The easing of visa restrictions earlier this month was a step towards de-escalation, demonstrating India’s willingness to address the concerns raised by Canada.

The G20 summit provides a platform for leaders to engage in discussions on global issues. Trudeau’s virtual presence at the summit, despite the previous tensions, indicates a diplomatic effort to rebuild relations. The fact that leaders from diverse nations are participating underscores the importance of international cooperation, especially in the face of shared challenges such as the ongoing global pandemic.

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