India Signals Thaw in Ties with Canada Ahead of G7
Amid a prolonged diplomatic standoff with Canada, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has hinted at a possible shift in tone ahead of the upcoming G7 Summit. India has stated it is “exploring a path to reset ties,” suggesting cautious optimism for future engagement even as tensions remain over the fallout of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations linking Indian agents to the killing of separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
India Canada Relations
The relationship between the two countries deteriorated sharply in 2023 following Trudeau’s statement in the Canadian Parliament accusing India of involvement in Nijjar’s killing. India responded by labeling the allegations “absurd and motivated,” leading to the expulsion of diplomats on both sides and a freeze on bilateral engagements. The situation was further aggravated by Canada’s perceived leniency toward Khalistani extremists operating on its soil.
Against this backdrop, the latest MEA remarks indicate a potential recalibration. Speaking to reporters on Thursday, MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal stated, “We are in touch with the Canadian side regarding the proposed G7 Summit in Italy.” He further added, “We are exploring a pathway towards reset of bilateral relations, based on mutual respect and mutual interest.”
G7 Summit and Bilateral Reset
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been invited to the G7 Summit hosted by Italy in Apulia from June 13–15, where he is expected to hold several bilateral meetings on the sidelines. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will also be attending the Summit, raising speculation about a potential diplomatic engagement between the two leaders. While no meeting has been officially confirmed, the change in India’s language suggests that quiet diplomacy may be underway.
India’s measured statement is being seen by diplomatic watchers as a softening of stance, possibly to test the waters for a broader reset without compromising on core concerns related to extremism and sovereignty.
MEA Statement Implications
India’s emphasis on mutual respect signals that any improvement in ties will be contingent on Canada addressing India’s long-standing concerns about the activities of pro-Khalistan groups. In the past, India has accused Canada of providing a safe haven for individuals advocating separatism and violence against India. The current diplomatic impasse has affected trade talks and cultural ties, impacting Indian students and business investments.
While a full thaw in relations may take time, the MEA’s outreach ahead of a major multilateral forum could be a step toward de-escalation, especially if Canada reciprocates in tone and action.
