Canada, Toronto: On India's 78th Independence Day, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau conveyed that Ottawa is prepared to collaborate with New Delhi.

In a statement released on Thursday, Trudeau emphasized, As an Indo-Pacific partner, Canada is ready to work with India to enhance the lives of people in both our nations.

He continued, Today, we join the people of India and the Indo-Canadian community in celebrating India's Independence Day.

Trudeau highlighted that Canada is home to over 1.3 million individuals of Indian heritage, noting their significant role in shaping and strengthening Canada. He remarked, We honor their contributions, which continue to fortify our country and secure our prosperity.

This year's Independence Day greetings were notably more reserved compared to 2023. Relations between Canada and India have deteriorated since Trudeau's September 18, 2023, statement in the House of Commons, where he mentioned credible allegations suggesting a possible connection between Indian agents and the killing of pro-Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia, three months prior.

In his 2023 message, Trudeau said, As the world's largest democracy, India is and will remain-a crucial partner for Canada in advancing our shared values of democracy, pluralism, and progress.

Independence Day was observed at India's missions across Canada. The High Commissioner in Ottawa raised the national flag at the mission and read excerpts from President Droupadi Murmu's address to the nation. Similar ceremonies took place at the Consulate Generals in Toronto and Vancouver.

Although protests by pro-Khalistan groups occurred outside the missions, the celebrations were not disrupted, thanks to the security provided by diplomatic and local law enforcement.