India and Canada Agree to Restore Diplomatic Ties Amidst Tensions

Restoration of Diplomatic Services
India and Canada have reached an agreement to restore diplomatic services, a significant development following two years of strained relations over the Khalistan issue. This agreement comes at a time when Prime Minister Narendra Modi held his first bilateral meeting with Canada's new Prime Minister Mark Carney during the G7 summit.
Warm Welcome from Canada's Prime Minister
On Tuesday, Prime Minister Mark Carney welcomed Narendra Modi in Kananskis, where Modi attended the G7 summit's outreach session. The spokesperson for the Ministry of External Affairs, Randhir Jaiswal, shared on social media that the meeting aimed to build bridges for global progress and cooperation. Modi expressed his intention to discuss critical global issues and emphasize the priorities of the Global South during his interactions with world leaders. This marks Modi's first visit to Canada in a decade.
High Commissioners to be Restored
In a notable diplomatic move, India and Canada decided to reinstate high commissioners in each other's capitals, a step towards normalizing bilateral relations that had cooled under Justin Trudeau's previous administration. This decision was made following a meeting between Modi and Carney at the G7 summit.
Carney's Remarks on the Meeting
After the meeting, Carney stated in a press conference, "I believe today's meeting was significant, but I would call it foundational, a necessary first step: an open exchange of ideas regarding law enforcement and international repression, among other topics. This agreement lays the groundwork for rebuilding relations based on mutual respect, sovereignty, and trust. We will proceed to appoint high commissioners again."
Further Diplomatic Steps Ahead
Following the meeting, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri informed reporters that the Prime Minister agreed to take thoughtful steps to restore stability in this crucial relationship, with the first step being the swift reinstatement of high commissioners in each other's capitals. Additional diplomatic measures will be taken in due course.
Discussion on Bilateral Relations
The Canadian readout of the meeting highlighted that both leaders reaffirmed the importance of Canada-India relations based on mutual respect, the rule of law, and sovereignty. They agreed to appoint new high commissioners to provide regular services to citizens and businesses in both countries.
Strengthening Economic Ties
The leaders discussed the strong historical ties between their peoples, partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, and significant commercial relations, including economic development, supply chains, and energy transitions. Carney raised priorities on the G7 agenda, including international crime, repression, security, and a rules-based order. They also explored opportunities to deepen engagement in areas such as technology, digital transition, food security, and critical minerals.
Resuming Trade Talks
Modi and Carney addressed the stalled trade talks between their nations. Misri noted that both leaders decided to instruct their officials to resume discussions as soon as possible. They expressed a desire to restart negotiations and maintain regular communication.
Emphasis on Citizen Services
The leaders underscored the need to restore normal services for citizens and businesses in both countries. They acknowledged the long-standing people-to-people connections, growing commercial ties, and increasing cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
Economic Development Discussions
Additionally, they discussed enhancing economic growth through resilient supply chains and clean energy partnerships.