It is a matter of concern for us: White House on India- Canada row

Washington: The US government on Thursday said it is taking seriously India’s alleged involvement in the murder of a Khalistani terrorist in Canada.

US national security adviser Jake Sullivan added that the United States would stand up for its principles, no matter what country is affected, Reuters reported.

The diplomatic relations between India and Canada nosedived after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of involvement in the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a temple in Surrey in June.

This is the first time US government has responded to the spiraling crisis between India and Canada.

However, India is one of the key allies of the US government with Joe Biden inviting PM Modi for state visit at the White House earlier this year.

The US government cannot at the same time be indifferent to the developments happening in its neighbouring country.

While taking Canada into confidence, the US has gone easy on the controversy saying that ‘It is a matter of concern for us’.

‘There's not some special exemption you get for actions like this. Regardless of the country, we will stand up and defend our basic principles and we will also consult closely with allies like Canada as they pursue their law enforcement and diplomatic process,’ Sullivan was quoted as saying at the White House.

Sullivan said the US is in touch both the countries: ‘We are in constant contact with our Canadian counterparts ... and we have also been in touch with the Indian government.’

Sullivan rejected the reports that there is a ‘wedge’ between the US and Canada over the issue.

‘I firmly reject the idea that there is a wedge between the US and Canada. We have deep concerns about the allegations and we would like to see this investigation carried forward and the perpetrators held to account,’ he reportedly said.