In brief
After nearly two years of heightened tensions stemming from the assassination of a Sikh activist, India and Canada are moving towards mending their diplomatic relationship, appointing new ambassadors and resuming dialogue.
India and Canada are signaling a positive shift in their diplomatic relations as both nations embark on a collaborative journey to remedy the rift that developed following the killing of prominent Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. This new phase comes after months of diplomatic fallout, including the expulsion of senior diplomats from both sides. During a recent meeting at the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced plans to appoint new high commissioners and to recommence discussions on trade and other consular services. This desire for reconciliation is seen through their joint statements released on Tuesday, indicating a readiness to restore regular services for citizens and businesses.Canadian officials noted that the two leaders would work to initiate “senior ministerial as well as working-level engagements” aimed at rebuilding trust and revitalizing the bilateral relationship. The last two years of tension stemmed from the September 2023 allegations made by then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, accusing India of involvement in the fatal shooting of Nijjar, a Canadian citizen supporting the creation of a Sikh homeland known as Khalistan. India, on the contrary, dismissed these claims and pointed fingers at Canada for allegedly harboring extremists.The diplomatic crisis saw deteriorating trade links and disruptions in visa issuance, leading to the expulsion of diplomats from both nations. As the situation intensified, Canada expelled India's high commissioner and five other diplomats, branding them as suspects in Nijjar's death, prompting India to retaliate similarly.However, with the recent political transition in Canada following Trudeau's resignation and the election of Carney, who has substantial economic experience, there is renewed hope for a diplomatic reset. This newfound collaboration could pave the way for improved bilateral interactions, fostering peace and cooperation between the two nations. Matina Stevis-Gridneff contributed reporting to this piece. Anupreeta Das is a correspondent covering India and South Asia for The Times, operating from New Delhi.
