National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met with his Canadian counterpart, Nathalie G. Drouin, in New Delhi on September 18, 2025, to discuss strengthening bilateral relations, with a particular focus on counter-terrorism measures. The meeting was part of the ongoing bilateral security dialogue between India and Canada.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reported that both sides recognized a "clear momentum for rebuilding trust and expanding cooperation" at the highest political levels. Discussions were productive, covering ways to advance the bilateral relationship, including counter-terrorism efforts, combating transnational organized crime, and intelligence exchanges. Both NSAs agreed to strengthen security cooperation and reinforce existing engagement mechanisms, also deliberating on priority areas for future cooperation and exchanging views on regional and global developments. The MEA stated that both countries agreed to adopt a collaborative approach moving forward, signaling a new chapter in their relationship.
In addition to Drouin's visit, Deputy Foreign Minister David Morrison of Canada participated in pre-Foreign Office Consultations (FOC) with Secretary (East) P Kumaran in New Delhi on September 19. These consultations and the NSA meeting served as a follow-up to discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney during the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, in June 2025.
During the discussions, the Indian side voiced concerns regarding Khalistan extremism and sought assurances about the security of Indian diplomats and missions in Canada. India's MEA has emphasized that it is the responsibility of the Canadian government to ensure the security of Indian diplomatic establishments.
These meetings and consultations signify a move towards normalizing relations between India and Canada after a period of strained ties. Relations had deteriorated following Canada's accusations against India regarding the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2023, which India has firmly denied, calling the allegations "absurd" and "motivated" and accusing Canada of harboring extremist and anti-India elements. The return of high commissioners to both countries was a step towards easing diplomatic tensions.
Both sides reaffirmed the importance of their relationship, emphasizing shared democratic values, respect for the rule of law, and commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity. They agreed to reactivate bilateral dialogue mechanisms across various sectors, including trade, defense, energy, civil nuclear cooperation, security and law enforcement, critical minerals, space, science and technology, and agriculture. A mutual decision was made to address capacity-related issues at missions and consulates to strengthen people-to-people connections and economic opportunities.
