Ottawa/New Delhi — Canada and India are taking cautious but significant steps toward normalizing relations after a year of heightened diplomatic tensions sparked by allegations over the killing of a Sikh separatist leader in Canada.
Background: A Diplomatic Flashpoint
The rift began in September 2023 when then–Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said Canadian intelligence agencies were probing “credible allegations” linking Indian government agents to the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian Sikh activist shot dead in British Columbia that June.
Nijjar was an outspoken proponent of Khalistan, a proposed independent Sikh state outlawed in India. The allegation triggered an unprecedented diplomatic clash:
- Expulsions: Both nations ejected senior diplomats in retaliatory moves.
- Visa freeze: India temporarily suspended visas for Canadian citizens.
- Diplomatic drawdown: New Delhi ordered Ottawa to withdraw 41 diplomats, crippling Canada’s consular presence.
- Trade setback: Bilateral trade talks were shelved indefinitely.
New Delhi categorically rejected the accusations, calling them “politically motivated,” while accusing Ottawa of turning a blind eye to Sikh separatist activities on Canadian soil.
A Path Toward Repair
Relations began to thaw following a leadership change in Ottawa. New Prime Minister Mark Carney met with his Indian counterpart, Narendra Modi, on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Alberta this June.
Both leaders agreed to pursue “calibrated and constructive” steps to restore diplomatic stability, starting with the reinstatement of top-level envoys.
New High Commissioners Appointed
In a coordinated move, the two countries have now appointed new High Commissioners — the highest diplomatic representatives in Commonwealth nations:
- Christopher Cooter, a seasoned Canadian diplomat with more than 35 years of experience, including a past posting in New Delhi.
- Dinesh Patnaik, currently India’s ambassador to Spain, who brings extensive diplomatic experience to the Canadian assignment.
The appointments mark a tangible step toward reconciliation between Ottawa and New Delhi, signaling renewed intent to stabilize a relationship vital for both countries’ economic and strategic interests.
Geopolitical Stakes
India and Canada share robust economic, educational, and cultural linkages. India remains the largest source of international students and temporary workers in Canada, while Ottawa sees New Delhi as a critical partner in diversifying trade ties amid shifting global supply chains.
Restoring bilateral trust could also have broader geopolitical implications. With Canada aligning more closely with U.S. and European allies on Indo-Pacific strategy, and India seeking to balance Western partnerships against its own domestic and regional interests, the easing of tensions may help both countries reinforce their roles in an increasingly multipolar world.
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