Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau asked India on Thursday to cooperate in an investigation into the killing of a separatist Sikh leader in British Columbia, Canada, and stated that his country would not disclose the evidence it has.

Trudeau mentioned on Monday that Ottawa has credible evidence linking Indian government agents to the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nagar in June, which sparked anger in New Delhi. Nagar (45 years old) held Canadian citizenship.

Canada's traditional allies have taken a relatively cautious stance on the issue so far. Analysts say this is partly due to the fact that the United States and other key influential entities view India as a counterweight to China's growing influence.

Trudeau said at a press conference in New York on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly meetings: "There is no doubt that India is an increasingly important country and one we need to continue to work with... We do not want to provoke or create problems, but our position is clear regarding the importance of the rule of law and regarding the importance of protecting Canadians."

He added: "Therefore, we urge the Government of India to work with us to put in place measures to uncover the truth of the matter and to bring it to light."

For its part, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs stated that Canada has not shared any specific information regarding the murder.

Nagar was a supporter of establishing an independent Sikh state named "Khalistan" on Indian Punjab's territory, and India designated him as a "terrorist" in July 2020.

When asked about the timing of Canada disclosing the evidence it has, Trudeau replied, "As a country with a strong and independent judicial system, we allow these judicial processes to reveal themselves with absolute integrity."

India suspended the issuance of new visas to Canadians on Thursday and requested Ottawa to reduce its diplomatic representation in the country.