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India and Canada have simultaneously announced the appointment of their new High Commissioners, indicating a new beginning in the relationship. Relations which have cooled down in recent years due to the Khalistan dispute and political tensions are now slowly getting back on track.
This appointment of diplomats is not just a formal change, but an indication that India and Canada want to leave behind the rift in the relationship and move towards a new partnership. The shadow of the Trudeau era is gradually disappearing and both countries are now seen moving forward on the basis of pragmatism and common interests.
A big step towards restoring relations
In fact, diplomatic dialogue between the two countries had reached the brink of collapse several times. In 2023, the then Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau accused India of killing Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
India took tough steps and expelled Canadian diplomats and even stopped visa services.
It also affected important areas like bilateral trade and student visas.
But things started to change after Trudeau stepped down and Mark Carney became prime minister. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Carney met at the G7 summit (June 2024) and agreed to break the standstill and rebuild the relationship.
India’s View
India has sent a clear message that it wants to normalise relations with Canada, but there will be no compromise on Khalistani activities. The new appointment is a sign that Delhi is now ready to resume dialogue with Ottawa.
Canada’s View
For Canada, India is not just a strategic partner but also home to its largest diaspora community. A growing number of Indian students and professionals are an important part of Canada’s economy and society. The Carney government wants to heal this resentment and improve relations.
Changing geopolitical landscape
The needs of both India and Canada are also forcing this ‘reset’. India wants to strengthen its economic and technological cooperation in North America. Canada cannot ignore India while keeping pace with the US and Western partners. Education, investment and mutual trade can create huge opportunities for both countries.
Timeline of relations
2018 Trudeau’s visit to India mired in controversies, disagreement on Khalistan issue.
2020 Trudeau’s comments on farmers’ protest sour relations.
2023 Nijjar murder case; relations at lowest level due to Trudeau’s allegations.
2024 Modi-Karni meet, resolve to bring relations back on track.
2025 India and Canada jointly announce restoration of High Commissioners
