"If The Intelligence We Have Received Is Proven To Be Accurate. . ": Canadian Defence Minister On Nijjar Killing

Canada's Defence Minister, Bill Blair, has said in an interview that there will be significant concerns for Canada IF the intelligence they have received regarding Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing is proven to be accurate.

Blair's remark raises the questions:

• Did Canadian PM Justin Trudeau name Indian agencies as an accused in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar without the Canadian government being fully ascertained of the facts?

• Did Canada initiate a diplomatic standoff with India over intelligence that is yet to be proven accurate?

“We understand that this can be, and has proven to be, a challenging issue with respect to our relationship with India. But at the same time, we have a responsibility to defend the law, defend our citizens, and at the same time make sure that we conduct a thorough investigation and get to the truth."

Blair was speaking to Mercedes Stephenson of Global News.

On her question that where does the current standoff leave Canada's Indo-Pacific strategy, Blair said:

"Well, Mercedes, just to be clear, if the intelligence that we have received is proven to be accurate, then there is a very significant concern that Canada will have with respect to violation of our sovereignty and the murder of a Canadian citizen on Canadan soil. (emphasis added)

"And at the same time I also want to acknowledge the importance of the Indo-Pacific strategy. We've been working very hard over the last several years and most recently building trade agreements in the region. And through the Canadian armed forces we have been increasing our presence and patrol in the region.

"So the Indo-Pacific region, including our relationship with India is important to us, but also standing up for international rules-based order and ensuring we defend our sovereignty and our citizens is our first priority".