Modi delivers veiled message to Canadian PM Justin Trudeau on extremism

New Delhi: With his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau by his side, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday delivered a firm message, saying those challenging India's sovereignty and unity cannot be tolerated, remarks seen as a subtle reference to Canada's soft-stand towards pro-Khalistani elements.

In a statement at a joint press event after his extensive talks with visiting leader, Modi also asserted that there could not be any space for those who misuse religion for political motives and promote separatism.

"There should be no space for those misusing faith for political goals and sowing seeds of division. Those who challenge sovereignty, unity and integrity of our countries cannot be tolerated," the prime minister said.

Following the talks, the two sides inked six pacts providing for enhancing cooperation in some areas including energy, information technology, trade, science and technology and sports.

Modi said Trudeau, and he agreed to fight terrorism and extremism, and the National Security Advisers of the two countries have given final touches to the framework for cooperation on countering terrorism and violent extremism.

"We reviewed entire gamut of our relationship and identified ways to strengthen the cooperation. First, we have decided to strengthen our defence cooperation. Terrorism and extremism are threats to democratic and pluralistic countries like India and Canada. It is important to come together to deal with these forces," Modi said. Trudeau government's pro-Khalistan approach has come in for flak by many including Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh, who raised the issue with the Canadian prime minister during a meeting on Wednesday.

On his part, Trudeau had assured Singh that his country does not support separatism in India or elsewhere.

Referring to Trudeau's visits to various parts of India in last six days, Modi said, "I am confident, Prime Minister Trudeau must have realised enthusiasm and friendship towards Canada in India. He must have realised India's diversity and liveliness of our democracy."

He said India is proud of the achievements of the Indian people in Canada and expressed happiness over Trudeau bringing some of them to India as part of his delegation here.

He said India is committed to friendship with Indians in Canada and wants their cooperation in the country's development.

"People-to-people contact is the base of our strategic partnership," said Modi.

Earlier, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj called on the Canadian prime minister and discussed various issues of mutual interest.

Swaraj had a warm meeting with Trudeau and discussed ways to strengthen and deepen the partnership between the two countries, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) Spokesperson Raveesh Kumar tweeted.