Key Points
- India and Canada have agreed to reinstate their High Commissioners after a period of diplomatic tension.
- PM Narendra Modi and Canadian PM Mark Carney held a constructive meeting at the G7 Summit in Kananaskis.
- Both leaders emphasized shared democratic values, rule of law, and people-to-people ties as the foundation of renewed relations.
- Plans to resume senior-level dialogues on trade, connectivity, clean energy, AI, and critical minerals were agreed upon.
- Trade negotiations between the two countries, previously stalled, will be restarted promptly.
- The move follows last year’s diplomatic rift triggered by accusations related to the killing of pro-Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
- Both leaders committed to maintaining close contact and meeting again soon to strengthen bilateral ties.
Kananaskis: After a prolonged period of strained relations, India and Canada are signaling a fresh start in their diplomatic ties. Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced that both countries have agreed to reinstate their High Commissioners in each other’s capitals, marking a significant step toward restoring stability and cooperation.
This development follows a positive and constructive meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney during the G7 Summit held in Kananaskis, Canada. The two leaders discussed the importance of India-Canada relations, grounded in shared democratic values, respect for the rule of law, and strong people-to-people connections.
Modi-Carney Meeting Sparks Diplomatic Thaw
In a joint statement, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri highlighted that both Prime Ministers agreed on concrete steps to mend the relationship, starting with the reinstatement of High Commissioners. This move is expected to pave the way for further diplomatic engagements and the resumption of senior and executive-level working groups focusing on trade, connectivity, and cultural exchanges.
The leaders also agreed to revive discussions on key strategic areas including clean energy, clean technology, digital infrastructure, artificial intelligence, food security, critical minerals, and supply chains. These sectors are seen as vital for future cooperation and mutual growth.
Background: Tensions Over Diplomatic Expulsions and Terror Allegations
The thaw comes after a period of heightened tensions last year when India recalled its High Commissioner and five other diplomats from Ottawa. This was in response to Canada’s allegations linking Indian diplomats to the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a pro-Khalistani separatist leader. India strongly denied these accusations and expelled an equal number of Canadian diplomats, leading to a diplomatic freeze.
The Modi-Carney dialogue marks a clear attempt to move past these issues and focus on rebuilding trust and collaboration.
Trade Talks to Resume Amid Renewed Optimism
Another significant outcome of the meeting was the decision to restart stalled trade negotiations. Both leaders instructed their officials to expedite talks aimed at enhancing bilateral trade and economic ties, which have considerable potential given the size and complementarities of the two economies.
Foreign Secretary Misri confirmed that Modi and Carney committed to staying in close contact and agreed to meet again soon to maintain the momentum of this renewed partnership.
Shared Commitment to Sovereignty and Rule of Law
According to a statement from the Canadian Prime Minister’s Office, Carney and Modi reaffirmed the importance of their countries’ relationship, emphasizing mutual respect, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and adherence to the rule of law as cornerstones of their cooperation.
The India-Canada relationship, once marred by serious diplomatic disputes, is now on a path to recovery. With High Commissioners set to return, trade talks resuming, and strategic cooperation expanding, this renewed engagement promises to strengthen ties between two major democracies grounded in shared values and mutual interests.
