After a lengthy diplomatic dispute stemming from the killing of a Sikh activist on Canadian soil, India and Canada have taken steps towards rebuilding their strained relationship. The recent two-day visit to New Delhi and Mumbai by Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand has been deemed successful, with efforts focused on enhancing their ties post the tumultuous period of September-October 2023.
The rift between the two nations began 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. This led to a breakdown in relations, culminating in the expulsion of each country’s top diplomats. Canadian authorities are currently investigating alleged transnational repression targeting the Sikh community in Canada, with four Indian nationals facing charges related to Nijjar’s homicide.
Despite persistent tensions, a more practical approach has emerged in the relationship’s reconstruction as both countries grapple with tariffs imposed by the United States and seek to diversify their trade options. Economic diplomacy has been highlighted as essential by Anand, emphasizing the need for pragmatism in current circumstances.
A positive development occurred following Canada’s recent election, which saw Mark Carney assume office as prime minister. Carney’s invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alta., last June signaled a slight thaw in relations. Both nations have appointed new high commissioners, with India agreeing to readmit the same number of Canadian diplomats as before.
During her first visit to India as foreign minister, Anand engaged in discussions with Modi and various business leaders, emphasizing the importance of cooperation and progress in bilateral relations. India’s External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar expressed the country’s desire to advance the diplomatic relationship positively, highlighting the steady progress made in recent months.
The joint statement released after the meetings reflects a renewed commitment to building trust, deepening cooperation, and revitalizing momentum between the two nations. Trade cooperation emerged as a key focus, with discussions encompassing agriculture, critical minerals, and AI technology. Notably, this statement marks the first high-level joint agreement between Canada and India in seven years.
However, the issue of transnational repression was conspicuously absent from the statement, prompting concerns. Anand reiterated Canada’s public safety concerns in her conversations with Indian officials, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach to address such challenges.
As the countries cautiously navigate the path towards reconciliation, the visit has received mixed reactions. While some in the business community welcomed the progress, groups like Sikhs For Justice expressed discontent, highlighting concerns over trade prioritization at the expense of other critical matters. Despite differing perspectives, the gradual steps taken towards rebuilding the relationship reflect a deliberate shift towards more structured engagement and dialogue.
