Justin Trudeau's extended India visit due to aircraft issue amid strained relations

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's visit to India was unexpectedly prolonged by two days due to an aircraft malfunction, sparking mockery on social media and drawing attention to the strained Canada-India relations. Trudeau had initially planned to depart after the conclusion of the G20 summit but faced an embarrassing delay because of the aircraft issue.

Aircraft trouble 

Trudeau's extended stay in India due to a mechanical problem with his aircraft led to ridicule from both opponents in Canada and Indian social media users. This delay followed a tense meeting between Trudeau and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

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Tensions in Canada-India relations

Canada-India relations have been under strain in recent months. Prior to his visit to Delhi, Trudeau announced an unexpected pause in talks regarding a trade treaty between the two nations. A significant factor in these tensions has been protests by Canada's sizable Sikh population. India has expressed concerns about Sikh separatist activities and denied any involvement in the murder of a prominent Sikh independence advocate in British Columbia in June.

Meeting and concerns raised

During their Sunday meeting, Prime Minister Modi conveyed his worries about "the continuing anti-India activities of extremist elements in Canada," accusing them of promoting secessionism and inciting violence. Trudeau's team, in response, emphasized the importance of respecting the rule of law, democratic principles, and national sovereignty. Additionally, Trudeau mentioned discussing foreign interference in Canada's affairs with Modi, as Canada includes India in its broader investigation into election interference, which also encompasses China and Russia.

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Aircraft incidents in Trudeau's history

This incident isn't the first time Justin Trudeau has encountered travel issues related to aircraft. In 2019, a plane carrying journalists collided with an aircraft chartered for his campaign trail, though Trudeau was not on board the aircraft during the collision.