New Delhi (NVI): Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on October 23 congratulated Justin Trudeau for his victory in Canadian elections, saying he looked forward to work with him to further strengthen bilateral ties.
“Congratulations Justin Trudeau! India and Canada are connected by shared values and a strong commitment to democracy as well as plurality. Looking forward to working together to further strengthen bilateral relations,” Modi tweeted.
Justin Trudeau has narrowly won a second term as Canada’s prime minister but is all set to lead a minority government that will be forced to depend on other parties including the fourth placed fourth-placed left-leaning New Democratic Party led by 40-year-old Indian origin human rights lawyer Jagmeet Singh.
The Trudeau-led Liberals had 156 seats, 14 short of the 170 needed for a majority in the 338-seat House of Commons.
“We seek hardship for none and prosperity for all, and if we unite around these common goals, I know we can achieve them,” Trudeau told cheering supporters in Montreal. He said Canadians had sent a clear message of support for progressive policies.
Donald Trump was also quick to congratulate Trudeau for “a wonderful and hard-fought victory”. Although the two leaders have not had a warm relationship – Trump described Trudeau as “dishonest” at last year’s disastrous G7 meeting in Quebec – the US president tweeted: “Canada is well served. I look forward to working with you toward the betterment of both of our countries!”
Four years after the Liberal leader swept to power promising “sunny ways” after nearly a decade of Conservative rule, Trudeau struggled to inspire voters as he campaigned for re-election.
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