After a protracted diplomatic dispute triggered by the killing of a Sikh activist in Canada, India and Canada have tentatively outlined a plan to mend their strained ties. Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand hailed the two-day trip to New Delhi and Mumbai as a success, emphasizing a commitment to enhance the relationship moving forward from the tumultuous period of September-October 2023.
The rift originated when former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian government agents of involvement in the murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, B.C., in 2023. India refuted the allegations as baseless and politically driven, leading to a deterioration in relations culminating in the expulsion of each country’s top diplomats.
Ongoing investigations in Canada focus on alleged transnational repression targeting the Sikh community, with four Indian nationals facing charges related to Nijjar’s killing. Amid trade challenges posed by U.S. tariffs, both nations are prioritizing economic diplomacy to diversify trade avenues for mutual benefit.
Mark Carney assuming office as Canada’s Prime Minister earlier this year marked a positive development. Carney’s invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alta., last June signaled a thaw in relations. New high commissioners have been appointed by both countries, with India agreeing to readmit the same number of Canadian diplomats as before.
During her inaugural visit to India as foreign minister, Anand engaged in discussions with Indian officials, emphasizing cooperation and trust-building. The joint statement released after the meetings highlighted a renewed focus on trade cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, critical minerals, and AI technology. Notably, this marked the first high-level joint statement between the two nations in seven years.
However, the statement did not address transnational repression directly, prompting Anand to stress Canada’s concerns regarding public safety in meetings with Indian counterparts. The absence of a definitive stance on this issue raised questions, especially from groups like Sikhs For Justice, who criticized the prioritization of trade over security.
Despite lingering tensions, the visit was viewed positively by Canada’s business community, signaling a potential rekindling of economic ties. Goldy Hyder, President and CEO of the Business Council of Canada, welcomed the progress, underscoring the importance of leveraging trade and investment opportunities with India as part of Canada’s diversification strategy.
