Canada cautiously resumes diplomatic efforts with India after years of tension, aiming for renewed economic and political collaboration.
A Cautious Thaw: Canada and India Begin Diplomatic Reset
Canada is taking measured steps to rebuild its strained relationship with India, nearly two years after a major diplomatic crisis put bilateral ties on ice. Foreign Minister Anita Anand, newly appointed under Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government, recently spoke with India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, marking the highest-level engagement since the fallout.
“We are certainly taking it one step at a time. The rule of law will never be compromised, and there is an ongoing investigation regarding the case that you mentioned,” Anand said, referencing the June 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
The Diplomatic Rift: What Went Wrong?
Relations between Canada and India soured in September 2023 after then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian officials of involvement in the killing of Nijjar, a Canadian Sikh leader. India dismissed these claims as “absurd” and “politically motivated.” The standoff resulted in both countries expelling diplomats and suspending trade talks. To this day, neither country has appointed new high commissioners, leaving ambassador-level posts vacant.
New Leadership, New Approach
The election of Mark Carney as Prime Minister has signaled a potential reset in Canada’s foreign policy. Both Carney and his Conservative rival have advocated for a more constructive relationship with India, recognizing the country as a key economic partner. The recent phone call between Anand and Jaishankar is seen as a positive first step, with both sides expressing a desire to “enhance Canada-India relations, intensify economic collaboration, and promote mutual objectives”.
Economic Interests Push for Engagement
Canadian business leaders are keen to see progress. Goly Hyder, president of the Business Council of Canada, plans to visit India to lay the groundwork for a larger business delegation, emphasizing that “a mature democracy dealing with another mature democracy finds a way to deal with difficult situations”.
Mixed Reactions at Home
Anand’s cautious optimism has drawn mixed reactions in Canada. The World Sikh Organisation (WSO) expressed disappointment, arguing that the government is overlooking concerns of the Sikh community. In contrast, Hindu organizations have voiced support, highlighting the economic and strategic benefits of repairing ties with India. The Hindu Canadian Foundation stressed the importance of a “Canada-first approach” to foreign policy.
Looking Ahead: Opportunities and Challenges
While the ongoing investigation into Nijjar’s killing and unresolved core disagreements remain obstacles, both governments have signaled a willingness to move forward. Behind-the-scenes diplomatic and intelligence contacts have resumed, and there is hope that the upcoming G7 Summit in Canada could provide a venue for further progress.
A full reset will take time, but renewed leadership and diplomatic engagement offer a chance for Canada and India to build a more resilient partnership—one step at a time.
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