India–Canada Take Steps to Reset Diplomatic Ties
India and Canada have moved to reset strained bilateral ties after a high-level security visit.
India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval visited Ottawa in early February 2026.
The visit marked a rare senior-level engagement after months of diplomatic tension.
Officials described the talks as constructive and forward-looking.
Both sides focused on restoring dialogue through practical security cooperation.
NSA Ajit Doval’s Visit Signals Renewed Engagement
Ajit Doval met Canada’s National Security and Intelligence leadership during the visit.
He also held discussions with senior officials responsible for public safety.
These meetings signaled a willingness to rebuild institutional communication.
The visit followed years of limited engagement between the two countries.
It showed a shift toward pragmatic diplomacy and issue-based cooperation.
Shared Security Work Plan Agreed
India and Canada agreed on a shared work plan for national security cooperation.
The plan focuses on law enforcement coordination and strategic information exchange.
Officials said the framework will guide future engagement between security agencies.
The work plan aims to make coordination faster and more structured.
Both sides want predictable channels instead of ad-hoc communication.
Focus on Crime, Drugs, and Cyber Threats
Security discussions covered transnational crime and organised criminal networks.
Drug trafficking, including the flow of fentanyl and its precursors, featured prominently.
Both countries acknowledged the growing cross-border nature of these threats.
Cybersecurity cooperation also formed a key part of the talks.
Officials agreed on the need for closer coordination against digital threats.
Decision to Appoint Liaison Officers
A major outcome was the decision to appoint security liaison officers.
Each country will post officers to improve real-time information sharing.
These officers will act as direct points of contact between agencies.
The move aims to reduce delays and misunderstandings.
It also reflects a long-term approach to cooperation.
Talks Aim to Restore Trust After Strain
India–Canada relations deteriorated sharply after diplomatic disputes in recent years.
The lack of trust affected political and security engagement.
Both governments now appear focused on stabilising the relationship.
Officials stressed respect for sovereignty and legal frameworks.
They avoided inflammatory language during the talks.
What This Reset Means Going Forward
The visit has reopened security channels between India and Canada.
It sets the stage for sustained dialogue and future high-level meetings.
While challenges remain, both sides have chosen engagement over confrontation.
The reset highlights shared interests in safety, stability, and rule of law.
