Canada and India have reached an agreement to enhance their bilateral relations, marking a significant step forward following a previous strain in their diplomatic ties over the assassination of a Canadian Sikh leader. Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand engaged in discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar in New Delhi, leading to the establishment of a new roadmap for Canada-India relations. Emphasizing the importance of a robust partnership amidst global economic uncertainties and escalating geopolitical tensions, both nations affirmed their commitment to fostering a strong and resilient bilateral relationship.
Key components of the agreement include upcoming ministerial-level dialogues on trade and investment, along with collaborative efforts in areas such as agriculture, science, technology, civil nuclear cooperation, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, and energy. The joint statement highlighted the significance of reviving this partnership not only to enhance economic cooperation but also to address vulnerabilities stemming from evolving global alliances, ensuring more secure supply chains, and bolstering strategic stability in an increasingly intricate international landscape.
This recent partnership agreement signifies a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts by both governments to thaw the previously frosty relationship that began after former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused the Indian government of involvement in the 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, B.C. Nijjar, a prominent figure in the Khalistan movement advocating for an independent Sikh state in India, was the subject of allegations linking Indian diplomats to gathering information on Canadians for illicit purposes.
Despite India refuting Canada’s claims, the accusations led to mutual expulsions of diplomats by both parties. In a bid to mend relations, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s administration has undertaken steps to rekindle ties with India, including the appointment of new envoys by both countries. During a meeting with Modi at the G7 summit in Alberta, Carney underscored the importance of restoring diplomatic relations as a crucial initial step, emphasizing the need for further collaboration while respecting each country’s sovereignty.
Following the reinstatement of high commissioners, Canada raised key issues such as transnational crime, security, and the rules-based order during discussions with Modi. Anand confirmed that Indian law enforcement authorities are actively engaged in collaboration with Canada, underscoring the ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Despite these positive developments, Carney’s approach has faced criticism from the Sikh community, with the World Sikh Organization (WSO) of Canada expressing concerns over the lack of assurances in the joint statement regarding halting foreign interference and transnational repression. WSO President Danish Singh emphasized the continued threats and criminal activities faced by Canadian Sikhs, calling for a more assertive stance to safeguard Canada’s sovereignty and the rule of law.