India and Canada agree to reappoint high commissioners, signaling a diplomatic reset after tensions over the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
Diplomatic Relations Resume After Long Freeze
On Tuesday, India and Canada announced plans to restore full diplomatic services, marking a turning point in bilateral ties that had been strained since 2023. The decision was made following a high-level meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Alberta, Canada.
Leaders Meet Amid Historic Tensions
The Modi-Carney meeting comes nearly two years after Canada publicly accused India of involvement in the assassination of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. The accusations led to diplomatic expulsions, frozen visa services, and heightened rhetoric. However, Tuesday’s handshake in Alberta and joint statement on reappointing high commissioners signaled a desire to move forward.
Rebuilding Diplomatic Presence
According to a statement from Carney’s office, both governments agreed to “designate new high commissioners” and aim to resume “regular services to citizens and business.” The move is expected to ease travel, trade, and people-to-people ties, which had suffered during the diplomatic fallout.
Sensitive Issues Left Unspoken
Neither leader publicly addressed the Nijjar case during the summit, although Carney confirmed he had previously raised the issue with Modi. Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and Khalistan supporter, was gunned down outside a Sikh temple in Surrey in June 2023. The killing sparked protests and international tensions, particularly due to allegations of foreign interference on Canadian soil.
Protests Continue in the Background
While the leaders presented a united front, Sikh protesters rallied in Calgary, waving Khalistan flags and demanding justice for Nijjar. Demonstrations were peaceful but underscored that diaspora concerns remain unresolved.
Looking to the Future
Despite the unresolved tensions, the summit emphasized shared interests in technology, food security, critical minerals, and democratic values. “India and Canada are connected by a strong belief in democracy, freedom and rule of law,” Modi posted on X. Carney echoed those sentiments, calling Modi’s participation “a great honor.”
Judicial Process Still Underway
When asked about the ongoing murder investigation, Carney was cautious: “There is a judicial process underway, and I need to be careful about further commentary.” The comment suggests legal proceedings may continue to influence India-Canada relations, even as both sides work toward normalization.
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