MEA: No Major Deportation Issues for Indian Students in Canada
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs stated they have no updates on the reported deportation issues faced by Indian students in Canada, who protested against sudden immigration policy changes. MEA also emphasized no major problems for Indian students in Canada and highlighted the importance of upcoming BRICS meetings under Russia's chairmanship.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has addressed recent reports about Indian students in Canada protesting against changes in immigration policy. The students claimed that the Canadian government had suddenly altered immigration policies, denying them work permits and causing significant concern among the student community.
During a weekly media briefing, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated that they are not aware of any widespread deportation issues affecting Indian students in Canada. "We have a large number of students who have gone to Canada to study. The figure is pretty significant. But what you are mentioning is that several students are facing problems that we haven't come across as of now. Sorry, deportation. I don't have an update on that," Jaiswal said.
Jaiswal acknowledged that there might be isolated cases where students face difficulties but emphasized that there is no major problem concerning Indian students in Canada. "There may be one case here or one case there, that's about it. But we don't see any major problem as far as students in Canada, as they're concerned," he added.
Emphasis on BRICS Cooperation
During the same briefing, Jaiswal highlighted the importance of BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa) and the expansive program planned by the Russian presidency, which commenced on January 1, 2024. Russia has taken over the chairmanship of BRICS and plans to hold over 250 meetings throughout the year.
"BRICS is an important platform. I understand the Russian presidency is preparing a very expansive, ambitious program. There are over 250 meetings that are planned. We look forward to participating in the BRICS meetings and strengthening the BRICS agenda," Jaiswal stated.
He also emphasized the significance of BRICS in promoting multipolarity in international relations. "And we also hope that the expanded BRICS becomes an important platform to give voice to the issue of multipolarity," he added.
The expanded BRICS now includes new members Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, indicating the growing influence and authority of the association in global affairs. During its chairmanship, Russia will focus on key areas such as politics and security, economy and finance, and humanitarian cooperation.
Conclusion
The MEA has clarified that there are no major deportation issues faced by Indian students in Canada, despite recent protests. Additionally, the ministry highlighted the significant role of BRICS in fostering international cooperation, with an extensive agenda planned under the current Russian chairmanship.
