The Australian Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, who was leading Australia’s delegation at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, addressed the issue in response to a question concerning Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s assertion that “agents of the Indian government” were involved in Nijjar’s killing
In a noteworthy development, Australia has expressed its concerns regarding Canada’s allegations involving India in the assassination of a Sikh separatist leader, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, terming the situation as “concerning.” The Australian Foreign Minister, Penny Wong, made these statements during a press conference held at the UN Headquarters on September 19. Wong, who was leading Australia’s delegation at the 78th session of the UN General Assembly, addressed the issue in response to a question concerning Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s assertion that “agents of the Indian government” were involved in Nijjar’s killing.
Wong’s remarks shed light on Australia’s stance on the matter. She emphasized the seriousness of the reports and acknowledged that investigations were ongoing. Wong stated, “Look, these are concerning reports, and I note that investigations are still underway. But obviously, these are concerning reports, and as I’ve said, we are monitoring these developments closely with our partners, and we’ll continue to do so.”
Hardeep Singh Nijjar, the chief of the banned Khalistan Tiger Force and one of India’s most-wanted terrorists, was fatally shot by two unidentified gunmen outside a gurdwara in Surrey, located in the Canadian province of British Columbia, on June 18. In response to Trudeau’s allegations, India vehemently rejected any involvement by the Indian government in the violence in Canada, denouncing the claims as “absurd and motivated.”
Australia, as a responsible international actor, has also engaged with India on this matter. Wong confirmed that Australia had raised these concerns with its Indian counterparts, asserting their commitment to addressing the issue diplomatically.
Australia has also made clear, both through parliamentary statements and legislative measures, its commitment to safeguarding Australian democracy from any external influences. The nation stands firm in upholding democratic values and ensuring the peaceful coexistence of diverse perspectives within its borders
Regarding concerns about potential foreign interference from India in Australia, Wong emphasized Australia’s robust democratic values and the diversity of views within the Indian diaspora. She stated, “I think Australia is a robust democracy, and I think the Indian diaspora has a range of views, and you know, we have made clear in relation to democratic debate in Australia that the peaceful expression of different views is a key part of Australia’s democracy, and I think most Australians would agree with that.”
When questioned about the safety of Sikh Indians in Australia, Wong acknowledged that the allegations were still under investigation. However, she reiterated the Australian government’s commitment to protecting democracy and the right to peaceful protest, regardless of one’s political beliefs. Wong explained, “We take the view as a government that Australian democracy is precious, that as a matter of principle, and as a matter of law Australians of whatever persuasion have a right to peaceful protest, and in all circumstances we reflect that right in our public statements and in our private conversations with other governments.”
Australia has also made clear, both through parliamentary statements and legislative measures, its commitment to safeguarding Australian democracy from any external influences. The nation stands firm in upholding democratic values and ensuring the peaceful coexistence of diverse perspectives within its borders.
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