The India-Canada Row and Its Implications for Afghanistan

The recent India-Canada diplomatic fallout began with allegations of India’s involvement in the assassination of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. These accusations highlight the fragile nature of international alliances. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India, leading to swift retaliatory measures. India responded by expelling Canadian diplomats and suspending visa services.

This situation serves as a critical reminder for countries like Afghanistan, which have leaned heavily on India’s support. India has invested approximately $3 billion in Afghanistan’s development since 2001. However, its commitment often appears contingent on its own interests. The rapid withdrawal of Indian support following the Taliban’s return to power in 2021 highlights the risks of overreliance on India as an ally.

Afghanistan’s reliance on India, framed within the context of India’s rivalry with Pakistan, has often led to a misplaced sense of security. The Afghan government under Ashraf Ghani saw India as a counterweight to Pakistan’s influence in the region, to promote diplomatic and military ties. However, the abrupt shift in India’s posture following the Taliban’s resurgence illustrates that alliances based solely on strategic interests can be fragile.

As the India-Canada relationship deteriorates, Afghanistan must re-assess its strategic positioning. The fallout illustrates that perceived friendships in international politics can quickly dissolve when national interests clash. Countries should cultivate diverse alliances to safeguard their interests and avoid vulnerability when geopolitical dynamics shift. True diplomatic relationships rely on mutual respect, not mere dependence.

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PAYF Insights are social media threads by various authors, reproduced here for wider consumption.