Canada and India have reached an agreement to enhance their bilateral relations following a previous rift stemming from the assassination of a Canadian Sikh leader. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand engaged in discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in New Delhi, culminating in a new roadmap for Canada-India ties. The joint release emphasized the critical need for a robust relationship amidst global economic uncertainties and escalating geopolitical tensions.
The agreement includes plans for ministerial-level talks on trade and investment, with a focus on cooperation in agriculture, science, technology, civil nuclear collaboration, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, and energy. Both countries aim to strengthen economic cooperation, secure supply chains, and bolster strategic stability in an increasingly complex global landscape.
This collaborative effort marks a significant step in thawing the frosty relations between Canada and India that originated from accusations made by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau linking the Indian government to the 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Khalistan movement advocate in Surrey, B.C. Despite India’s denial of the allegations, the fallout led to reciprocal expulsions of diplomats.
Under Prime Minister Mark Carney’s leadership, Canada has embarked on initiatives to mend ties with India, appointing new envoys in September. Restoring diplomatic channels was highlighted as an initial step, with a commitment to respect each other’s sovereignty. Discussions during the G7 summit included priorities such as transnational crime, security, and upholding the rules-based order, indicating a mutual effort to address shared challenges.
Anand confirmed active collaboration between Indian law enforcement agencies and Canada, signaling progress in strengthening bilateral law enforcement dialogue. Despite these positive developments, the World Sikh Organization (WSO) of Canada expressed concerns over the joint statement’s lack of assurances regarding halting foreign interference and transnational repression. The statement was criticized for failing to address ongoing threats and criminal activities directed at Canadian Sikhs by external actors, indicating the need for continued vigilance and defense of Canadian sovereignty.
