Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand has confirmed the active collaboration between Indian law enforcement officials and Canada, marking a significant improvement in their previously strained relationship. Anand revealed this development during an interview on “Rosemary Barton Live,” emphasizing the ongoing engagement between the two countries in law enforcement discussions. She expressed the importance of maintaining dialogue and outlined a step-by-step approach to further diplomatic relations during her upcoming visit to India.
This affirmation echoes the sentiments shared by National Security and Intelligence Adviser Nathalie Drouin, who was part of the Canadian delegation in India. Drouin highlighted the commitment from the Indian government to enhance cooperation with Canadian authorities in investigating the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
In a rare media interaction, Drouin underscored the shared objective of ensuring public safety by exchanging crucial information between the two nations. The recent efforts to mend diplomatic ties between Canada and India come after a period of tension triggered by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s accusations against the Indian government regarding Nijjar’s death.
Both countries subsequently recalled their high commissioners and diplomats, leading to a reduction in consular and trade services as a form of protest. However, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s administration has been actively working to restore these relations, with the recent appointment of India’s new High Commissioner to Canada, Dinesh Patnaik.
The commitment to resume visa services and the focus on trade talks signify a positive shift in the bilateral engagement. Discussions around the “One India” policy have emerged, emphasizing the need for mutual respect and understanding of each other’s territorial integrity.
As discussions progress, Anand reiterated Canada’s priority in safeguarding its interests while acknowledging the progress made in aligning perspectives between the two nations. The recent interactions between Canadian and Indian officials have been viewed as a positive step towards revitalizing dialogue on various fronts, including trade, defense, energy, and security cooperation.
While trade discussions have been initiated, Canada’s emphasis remains on fostering strong commercial ties with India, affirming its commitment to supporting and enhancing existing trade relationships. Anand emphasized a cautious and systematic approach in navigating the evolving relationship dynamics with India.