Canada and India have agreed on a set of measures to enhance their bilateral relations, marking a positive development following a previous strain in their diplomatic ties due to the killing of a Canadian Sikh leader on Canadian soil. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand engaged in discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in New Delhi, where the two nations established a new roadmap for Canada-India relations. Emphasizing the significance of a robust Canada-India bilateral relationship amidst global economic uncertainties and escalating geopolitical tensions, both parties underlined the need for enhanced cooperation in various sectors including trade, investment, agriculture, science and technology, civil nuclear collaboration, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, and energy.
The joint release highlighted the importance of reviving the partnership to foster economic cooperation, strengthen supply chains, and uphold strategic stability in an increasingly complex international landscape. This agreement follows a series of steps taken by both governments to thaw the frosty relations that arose after former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of involvement in the 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, B.C. Nijjar was a prominent advocate of the Khalistan movement, advocating for an independent Sikh state in India. Trudeau’s accusations, supported by security officials, led to the expulsion of diplomats from both countries.
In recent developments, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s administration has been actively working to mend ties with India. The appointment of new envoys by both Canada and India signifies a step towards reconciliation. Carney, following discussions with Modi at the G7 summit, stressed the importance of restoring diplomatic ties as an initial step, emphasizing the need for mutual respect for sovereignty. Discussions between Canada and India have focused on shared priorities including transnational crime, security, and adherence to the rules-based order. Anand confirmed that Indian law enforcement authorities are collaborating with Canada, underscoring ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
Despite these positive strides, Carney’s approach to India has faced criticism from the Sikh community. The World Sikh Organization (WSO) of Canada expressed deep concerns regarding the joint statement issued by Canada and India, citing a lack of assurances on halting foreign interference and transnational repression. The WSO emphasized the continued threats faced by Canadian Sikhs and criticized the statement for failing to address ongoing transnational repression. The organization called for a stronger defense of Canada’s sovereignty and the rule of law, characterizing the joint statement as a form of appeasement.