Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau: Delayed Departure From India Due To Aircraft Snag

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Extended Stay in India

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s visit to India was unexpectedly prolonged by two days due to a technical issue with his aircraft. Initially scheduled to leave India after the G20 summit concluded, Trudeau faced an embarrassing delay.

Mockery and Tensions

Trudeau’s extended stay in India drew mockery from opponents in Canada and Indian social media users alike. The delay came on the heels of a tense meeting between Trudeau and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This incident further strained the already tense Canada-India relations.

Frosty Ties

According to India Today, Trudeau’s visit did not help mend the frosty ties that have developed between Canada and India recently. Just days before his trip to Delhi, Trudeau unexpectedly announced a pause in trade treaty talks between the two countries, adding fuel to the diplomatic fire.

Sikh Protests

One major source of tension in Canada-India relations has been protests by Canada’s sizable Sikh population. India has expressed concerns about the activities of Sikh separatists, although it denies any involvement in the murder of a prominent advocate for Sikh independence in British Columbia.

Diplomatic Exchanges

During the Sunday meeting between Trudeau and Modi, Modi voiced concerns about “continuing anti-India activities of extremist elements in Canada,” accusing them of promoting secessionism and inciting violence. In response, Trudeau emphasized the importance of respecting the rule of law, democratic principles, and national sovereignty. Additionally, the two leaders discussed foreign interference in their countries’ affairs, with Canada including India in its investigation into election interference, alongside China and Russia.

Unusual Absences

Trudeau’s visit to India raised eyebrows for several reasons. He did not attend a weekend dinner for world leaders hosted by Indian President Droupadi Murmu, and reports suggested that no reason was provided by his office. Observers also noted his quick withdrawal from a handshake with Modi.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau: Delay Resolution

The exact activities Trudeau engaged in during the additional two days in India remain unclear. With no further diplomatic engagements, it is believed that he spent the time at his hotel, as reported by media outlets. Neither Trudeau nor the Indian government have commented publicly on the delay.

Aircraft Issue

On Monday, Canada’s Department of National Defence explained that Trudeau’s aircraft, a Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) CC-150 Polaris with tail number ’01,’ experienced a “maintenance problem” linked to a component that needed replacement. The RCAF emphasized its commitment to passenger safety through regular pre-flight safety checks. A replacement aircraft was dispatched to India to retrieve Trudeau.

Past Travel Incidents

This incident is not the first time Trudeau has encountered travel-related issues. In 2019, an aircraft carrying journalists collided with the wing of a plane chartered for his campaign trail transportation, although he was not on board at the time.