India-Canada Relations / Those responsible for the deterioration of India-Canada relations are now bowing their heads in Delhi

India-Canada Relations: During Justin Trudeau's tenure as Prime Minister, relations between India and Canada experienced considerable strain. During this period, Canada made several serious allegations against India, including claiming the Indian government's involvement in the murder of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Trudeau's statement in September 2024 further escalated tensions between the two countries. Furthermore, Canada's National Security Advisor (NSA) Nathalie Drouin and Deputy Foreign Minister David Morrison leaked information to The Washington Post, claiming that India's Union Home Minister Amit Shah was behind the operation targeting separatists. India strongly protested, calling these allegations "absurd and baseless."

Reasons for Souring Relations

India and Canada previously enjoyed good relations, but under Trudeau's leadership, the Khalistani issue created tensions between the two countries. The allegations surrounding Nijjar's murder, in particular, further complicated the situation. India categorically rejected these allegations and accused Canada of harboring Khalistani militants. This dispute deeply strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.

Steps Toward Improvement

Recently, both countries have begun taking steps toward improving relations. Canadian NSA Nathalie Drouin and Deputy Foreign Minister David Morrison visited India and met with Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. This meeting is considered an important step toward reducing tensions between the two countries. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed the meeting and said that the Canadian NSA had a positive conversation with Doval.

Significance of the NSA-level talks

Both sides adopted a positive approach during this high-level meeting between Doval and Drouin. Areas such as security, trade, and energy were prioritized in the discussions. India raised the issue of Khalistani extremism and the extradition of terrorists to Canada, while Canada pledged to share intelligence and cooperate in counter-terrorism operations. This meeting is being considered a major step towards restoring trust and enhancing cooperation between the two countries.

Future Prospects

This initiative to improve relations between India and Canada can be beneficial for both countries. There is immense potential for cooperation between the two countries in areas such as trade, energy, and security. If both sides maintain a positive attitude and strengthen mutual trust, bilateral relations can become even stronger in the future. This meeting has not only made a concrete beginning towards reducing tensions but has also opened new avenues for cooperation between the two countries.