Amidst a backdrop of strained relations in recent years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, signals a potential turning point in India-Canada relations. The meeting, Prime Minister Modi's first visit to Canada in a decade, carries the weight of expectations for a reset in bilateral ties that deteriorated following allegations made by former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding India's involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian Sikh separatist, in 2023.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of the India-Canada relationship, highlighting mutual investments and shared democratic values as cornerstones of the partnership. Speaking through an interpreter, he conveyed optimism about future cooperation under Prime Minister Carney's leadership, stating that the two nations could work together to strengthen democratic values. He also congratulated Carney on his recent election victory.
Prime Minister Carney warmly welcomed Prime Minister Modi, acknowledging India's growing global role and leadership in areas of mutual concern. He specifically mentioned energy security, artificial intelligence, and the fight against terrorism and transnational repression as key areas for collaboration.
The meeting took place against a complex backdrop of historical tensions and recent diplomatic challenges. The allegations surrounding the Nijjar killing led to a freeze in trade talks, reciprocal expulsions of diplomats, and a chilling effect on people-to-people exchanges, particularly in the student visa and immigration sectors. New Delhi has consistently voiced concerns about extremism and anti-India activities on Canadian soil, urging Canadian authorities to take concrete steps to curb such elements.
Despite these challenges, there is a shared recognition of the importance of the India-Canada relationship. India is Canada's top source of temporary foreign workers and international students, as well as an important market for Canadian goods, including agricultural products like lentils. The large Indian diaspora in Canada, numbering over 1.6 million, further underscores the deep people-to-people ties between the two countries.
Several factors point towards a potential thaw in relations. With Mark Carney assuming the role of Prime Minister of Canada earlier this year, there's an anticipation of a more pragmatic and globally-oriented approach to foreign policy. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar's recent constructive conversation with Canada's Foreign Minister Anita Anand further signals a renewed engagement between the two countries. Both sides are reportedly looking at the possibility of appointing new high commissioners to re-establish diplomatic channels.
Analysts suggest that the meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Carney could lead to a revival of bilateral relations. Both leaders are likely to explore ways to ensure that the judicial process in Canada regarding the Nijjar killing does not further harm bilateral relations with India.
While challenges remain, the recent meeting between Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Carney offers a glimmer of hope for a renewed and strengthened India-Canada partnership. The emphasis on shared values, economic cooperation, and addressing mutual concerns provides a foundation for rebuilding trust and fostering a more durable and forward-looking relationship.
