India's Strong Response to Canada's Exit of 41 Diplomats: Upholding Vienna Convention

Swetha

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posted on 6 months ago — updated on 1 second ago

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In a move that highlights India's firm stance on diplomatic equality, the country has countered Canada's criticism over the exit of 41 of its diplomats. The Indian External Affairs Ministry has rebutted these claims, stating that the move is completely in line with the Vienna Convention, an international treaty that specifies the diplomatic relations between countries. Officials emphasized that the portrayal of this action as a breach of international norms is inaccurate. Instead, they affirmed that India is merely implementing diplomatic parity, a principle that ensures mutual respect and fair treatment in diplomatic relations.

In a sharp retort to Ottawa's objections over the departure of 41 Canadian high commission personnel from India, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has defended its decision, stating that it is "in line with the Vienna Convention". The ministry has dismissed any allegations of violating international norms.

This statement comes in response to the Canadian government's recent expression of disappointment over India's move to cut down the size of its mission in New Delhi.

"It is regrettable that the Canadian government has sought to distort a routine administrative measure related to the implementation of parity in the number of diplomats posted in each other's country," the spokesperson of the MEA said.

The MEA spokesperson emphasized that the decision is purely administrative, taken in accordance with the fundamental diplomatic principle of reciprocity, which is a cornerstone of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961.

The Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, 1961, is a treaty that defines a framework for diplomatic relations between independent countries. It specifies the privileges of a diplomatic mission and establishes the principle of reciprocity.

The MEA also pointed out that Canada had been notified about the decision well in advance and was given "ample time" to make necessary arrangements. The spokesperson added, "Such decisions are not taken overnight, and the government of Canada was fully aware of our intentions."

The dispute over the number of diplomats erupted after Canada’s High Commission in India was found to have a considerably larger number of diplomats than India's High Commission in Canada. India sought parity, leading to the current situation.

Analysts suggest that this diplomatic row could impact bilateral relations between both nations. However, the Indian government has maintained its stance, emphasizing the importance of maintaining parity in diplomatic missions.

In conclusion, the Indian government's decision to reduce the number of Canadian diplomats in the country is a move to ensure parity, in line with international norms as per the Vienna Convention. Amidst the diplomatic tussle, it remains to be seen how the bilateral ties between the two nations will be impacted.