In a surprising turn of events, BLS International, an Indian company specializing in visa services, swiftly withdrew a notice announcing the suspension of visa services for Canadian citizens. This move came mere minutes after initially posting the notice on its website, citing a directive from the Indian mission as the reason for the suspension.
The initial notice from BLS International had cited "operational reasons" for the suspension of visa services, and it was stated to be in effect "till further notice." However, shortly after this announcement, the company removed the notice without providing further details.
India's foreign ministry spokesperson remained tight-lipped about the situation, declining to comment on the matter. The abrupt reversal has left many questioning the circumstances behind the original notice and its subsequent withdrawal.
Tensions between India and Canada have been on the rise in recent days, with Canada openly stating its pursuit of credible allegations linking Indian government agents to the murder of a Sikh separatist leader in British Columbia in June. India's government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vehemently denied any involvement or links to the alleged murder, categorically rejecting Canada's suspicions.
This diplomatic standoff has escalated to the point where both countries have expelled diplomats, signaling a severe strain in their bilateral relations. Canada is India's 17th largest foreign investor, having poured more than $3.6bn into the Indian economy since 2000. Additionally, Canadian portfolio investors have made substantial investments in Indian stock and debt markets.
Another critical aspect of India-Canada relations is the influx of international students from India to Canada. Since 2018, India has consistently been the largest source country for international students in Canada. In 2022, the number of Indian students studying in Canada increased by a staggering 47%, reaching nearly 320,000. This group comprises approximately 40% of all overseas students in Canada, significantly contributing to Canadian universities and colleges and enabling them to offer subsidized education to domestic students.
Looking ahead, industry estimates suggest that the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between Canada and India could have a substantial impact on bilateral trade. It is projected that this agreement could boost two-way trade by as much as $6.5bn, ultimately resulting in a significant GDP gain of $3.8bn to $5.9bn for Canada by 2035.
The sudden reversal of the visa service suspension notice by BLS International raises questions about the intricacies of the India-Canada diplomatic rift and the potential economic ramifications for both nations.
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