In brief
India and Canada are cautiously moving towards restoring diplomatic relations nearly two years after tension escalated due to the murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The rift between the two nations, which involved the expulsion of each other’s senior diplomats, appears to be easing as they announce plans for new high commissioners and a resumption of trade discussions.
In a joint statement released following a meeting between Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the G7 summit in Kananaskis, both leaders announced intentions to appoint ambassadors, reignite trade dialogues, and normalize visa processing. The past two years saw significant tension, especially after Canada accused India of being involved in Nijjar’s assassination, a claim India vehemently denied, labeling Nijjar a terrorist and asserting that Canada was harboring extremists. Trade relations and services, such as visa issuance, suffered significantly during this period, culminating in the expulsion of diplomats from both nations. The recent political shifts in Canada, with Mark Carney leading the government, provided a potential pathway for reconciliation. Officials have indicated plans for increased ministerial engagement aimed at rebuilding trust and smoothing relations. The international community now watches closely for developments as these two nations seek to navigate their complex relationship moving forward. Matina Stevis-Gridneff contributed to this report. Anupreeta Das is a journalist covering India and South Asia, based in New Delhi.
