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Foreign ministers

Canada and India Take Step-by-Step Approach to Normalizing Relations

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand's recent visit to India marks the beginning of a step-by-step approach to normalizing relations between the two countries, focusing first on ending New Delhi's interference in Canadian affairs and then on expanding trade ties. Anand's trip included meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, and business leaders, where she stressed the importance of respecting Canada's sovereignty and not engaging in violent and illegal acts.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Canadian government is taking a step-by-step approach to normalizing relations with India, focusing first on ending New Delhi's interference in Canadian affairs.
  • India has denied any links to the Bishnoi gang, which Canadian police have linked to elements of India's intelligence services.
  • Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand has signed a joint declaration with India covering issues of law enforcement and respect for the rule of law, but also serving as a framework to develop stronger trade and economic ties.
  • India is interested in working with Canada on artificial intelligence, agri-food, critical minerals, liquefied natural gas, and nuclear energy.
  • Canadian businesses are keen to invest in India, and the government is hoping to strike a similar deal with Indian companies.
  • However, Anand said it is too early to discuss a free trade pact with India, and that the focus is on increasing interaction between the two countries for greater trade resilience.
  • India's sovereignty and respect for Canada's diplomatic missions are preconditions for freer trade negotiations, according to Anand.
  • Ottawa has not fully staffed its diplomatic missions in India, despite the re-establishment of high commissioners in June.
  • Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) has identified India as a significant national security threat, and an ongoing investigation into the murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar may reveal more distasteful revelations.
  • The World Sikh Organization of Canada has expressed concern about the lack of assurances from the Canadian government that India will stop its transnational repression in Canada.

Statistics:

  • 2023: Diplomatic rupture between Canada and India occurred after then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly accused the Indian government of playing a role in the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
  • October 2024: RCMP announced clear evidence that Indian government agents were linked to homicides, extortion, and other violent activities in Canada.
  • 2022-2023: Canada's embassy and consular offices in India are still not fully staffed.
  • 2023-2024: CSIS released a report concluding India remains a significant national security threat.
  • 2023-2024: CSIS is investigating the murder of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, which may reveal more distasteful revelations.

Sources:

  • The Globe and Mail: "Canada and India take step-by-step approach to normalizing relations, says Anita Anand"

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