India and Canada have signaled a fresh start in their relationship by simultaneously announcing the appointment of new high commissioners. Relations, which had cooled in recent years due to the Khalistan controversy and political tensions, now appear to be gradually returning to normalcy.
This diplomatic appointment is not merely a formality but indicates that India and Canada are looking to move past the rift in their relationship and move towards a new partnership. The shadow of the Trudeau era is gradually lifting, and both countries now appear to be progressing based on practicality and shared interests.
This is an important development in growing our economic relationship.
The diplomatic dialogue between the two countries had, in fact, nearly broken down on several occasions. In 2023, then-Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of the assassination of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
India took strong action, expelling Canadian diplomats and even halting visa services.
This also affected important areas such as bilateral trade and student visas.
However, after Trudeau’s removal from power and the appointment of Mark Carney as Prime Minister, the situation began to change. At the G7 summit (June 2024), Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Carney agreed to break this standstill and rebuild relations.
India has sent a clear message that it wants to normalize relations with Canada, but there will be no compromise on Khalistani activities. The new appointment indicates that Delhi is now ready to resume dialogue with Ottawa.
For Canada, India is not just a strategic partner but also home to its largest diaspora community. The increasing number of Indian students and professionals is an important part of Canada’s economy and society. The Carney government wants to resolve this displeasure and improve relations.
Both India and Canada’s needs are also forcing this ‘reset’. India wants to strengthen its economic and technical cooperation in North America. Canada, while maintaining alignment with the US and Western partners, cannot ignore India. Education, investment, and mutual trade can create big opportunities for both countries.
Timeline of Relations:
2018 Trudeau’s visit to India controversial, disagreement on the Khalistan issue.
2020 Trudeau’s remarks on the farmers’ movement soured relations.
2023 Nijjar murder case; Trudeau’s accusations put relations at their lowest level.
2024 Modi-Carney meeting, resolution to put relations back on track.
2025 India and Canada jointly announced the restoration of High Commissioners.