After a prolonged dispute stemming from the killing of a Sikh activist in Canada, India and Canada have tentatively agreed on a plan to mend their strained relationship. Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand has described her recent visit to New Delhi and Mumbai as successful, emphasizing the goal of “elevating our relationship” and moving forward from the tumultuous period of September-October 2023.
The breakdown in relations was triggered when former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused Indian government agents of involvement in the assassination of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, B.C., in 2023. India refuted these allegations as baseless and politically driven, leading to reciprocal expulsions of diplomats by both nations.
Amid ongoing investigations into transnational repression targeting the Sikh community in Canada, both countries are now adopting a more pragmatic approach to rebuild their ties, particularly in light of trade challenges posed by the United States. The recent election in Canada, which saw Mark Carney assuming the role of Prime Minister, has contributed to a thaw in relations. Carney’s invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the G7 Summit signified a positive step in this direction.
The appointment of new high commissioners and India’s agreement to readmit the same number of Canadian diplomats signal progress in bilateral relations. The joint statement released after the visit reflects a renewed momentum towards strengthening cooperation, with a focus on enhancing trade ties and collaboration in sectors such as agriculture, critical minerals, and AI technology.
While the joint statement highlights positive strides, it notably sidesteps the issue of transnational repression, prompting concerns from Canadian officials. Despite these challenges, the gradual improvement in relations signifies a shift towards a more structured and dialogue-oriented approach, as opposed to previous confrontational tactics.
The visit has elicited mixed reactions, with some expressing optimism for enhanced economic cooperation, while others, like Sikhs For Justice, remain critical of the prioritization of trade over human rights issues. As the two countries navigate this delicate phase of reconciliation, the evolving dynamics underscore the complexities of international diplomacy and the need for constructive engagement to address contentious issues.
