Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's aircraft faced technical difficulties in New Delhi, prompting the Canadian delegation to postpone their departure and stay in New Delhi for Sunday night, news agency ANI reported citing an official familiar with the matter. Trudeau, accompanied by his son Xavier, arrived in India on Friday to attend the G20 summit during India's Presidency and held a bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
"Upon our departure for the airport, we were made aware by the Canadian Armed Forces that CFC001 was experiencing technical issues. These issues are not fixable overnight, our delegation will be staying in India until alternate arrangements are made", Press Secretary Mohammad Hussain was quoted as saying by ANI.
Earlier in the day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed India's deep concern to his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau on Sunday about extremist elements in Canada promoting secessionism, inciting violence against its diplomats, and endangering the Indian community.
Modi also mentioned in his talks with Trudeau on the sidelines of the G20 Summit that a relationship based on "mutual respect and trust" is essential for the progress of the India-Canada relationship, according to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
"The prime minister highlighted that India-Canada relations are anchored in shared democratic values, respect for the rule of law, and strong people-to-people ties," the statement said.
"He expressed our deep concern about the anti-Indian activities of extremist elements in Canada. They are encouraging secessionism and inciting violence against Indian diplomats, causing damage to diplomatic facilities, and endangering the Indian community in Canada and their places of worship," the statement said.
The link between such forces and organised crime, drug syndicates, and human trafficking should concern Canada as well. The MEA stated in a statement that cooperation between the two countries is critical in dealing with such threats.
When asked about India's concerns about the increasing activities of Khalistani elements in Canada, Trudeau said at a press conference that his country will always defend peaceful protest but will also always prevent violence and push back against hatred.
"Canada will always defend freedom of expression, conscience, and peaceful protest, and it is extremely important to us," he said.
"At the same time, we are always present to prevent violence and to combat hatred. I think it's important to remember, on the issue of community, that the actions of a few do not represent the entire community or Canada," Trudeau said. Click here to read more.