One visit, many openings: At G7, a step forward in India-Canada ties
After much anxiety on both sides, India and Canada have finally begun to turn a new page in their bilateral relations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Canada for the G7 summit concluded with significant positives. His meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney, described by the latter as a 'foundational' step in rebuilding India-Canada relations, was crucial. Importantly, threats by some Sikh organisations to ambush PM Modi did not materialise at all, underscoring the resilience of diplomacy against disruptive elements. After the summit, Carney publicly acknowledged India's 'natural' and 'consistent' place at the G7 table, reflecting Canada's recognition of India's growing global stature and the Carney government's pragmatic resolve to address worsening bilateral ties.
Carney emphasised India's importance, highlighting the 'size and dynamism of the Indian economy, Indian technology, and its role in a host of venues, G20 and beyond.' This recognition is central to India's perspective. As a proponent of making Canada an 'energy superpower', Carney lauded India's role in energy transition. At the Outreach Session, PM Modi reciprocated, underscoring the need for global energy security through sustainable and green pathways. He highlighted India's initiatives like the International Solar Alliance (ISA), the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI), and the Global Biofuels Alliance. Modi's consistent push for the Global South's concerns at such a high-profile forum further solidified India's role as their leading voice.
PM Modi also reaffirmed India's stance against terrorism, urging G7 leaders to galvanise global action and pushing for strict measures against those who promote and support it. He briefed leaders on Operation Sindoor, carried out against terror infrastructure in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, demonstrating India's proactive stance. Discussions also focused on technology and innovation, particularly the AI-energy nexus and quantum-related issues, with PM Modi highlighting India's experience in democratising technology. Beyond the summit, PM Modi engaged in numerous bilateral meetings with other world leaders, expanding India's diplomatic outreach.
Carney's realistic and encouraging description of their meeting as a 'foundation and necessary first step' conveyed a shared will to rebuild. PM Modi unequivocally communicated that, for India, national security and the fight against terrorism remain non-negotiable priorities. India's firm stance against any double standards in combating terrorism, underscores this commitment. This comes after a year of unprecedented tensions, marked by diplomatic expulsions and strained engagements stemming from the unresolved killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a designated Khalistani separatist. India has consistently denied involvement, attributing the crisis to Canada's perceived leniency towards extremist elements on its soil.
The most tangible outcome is the agreement to restore the role of the high commissioners. Their absence had created a glaring void, impeding diplomatic functions and harming people-to-people and business ties. Reinstating these crucial diplomatic posts, alongside resuming senior and working-level engagements, is more than procedural; it signals a clear intent to restore normalcy and vital services. Both leaders affirmed the importance of open and forward-looking dialogue, stressing mutual respect, democratic values, sovereignty, and the rule of law, along with their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. Stalled trade negotiations were also discussed.
Negotiations are also underway to establish a joint working group on transnational crime. While Carney portrayed that as a starting point of the conversation, India sees this as a two-way street and demands accountability on Canada's side as well. Cooperation against transnational crime and terrorism demands genuine collaboration and a clear understanding of each other's security concerns. India has consistently provided evidence and sought action against elements promoting secessionism against India from Canadian soil. A relationship built on 'mutual respect' must inherently involve Canada addressing these core Indian concerns with seriousness and demonstrable action.
Carney's concluding remark that 'there is a lot of work that needs to be done' resonates deeply in New Delhi. This visit is undeniably a positive development, a crucial first step on a path that promises to be long and arduous. It is not a magical cure for the deep-seated issues plaguing the relationship. Trust, once eroded, demands time and consistent effort to rebuild. The appointment of high commissioners is a vital beginning, but the real work of repairing trust and fostering deeper cooperation still lies ahead.
The writer is assistant professor, Centre for the Study of the Americas, School of International Studies, JNU
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