India, Canada Take First ⁢Steps to Restore Normal Ties

Following nearly two years of diplomatic ⁢strain sparked by the killing of a Khalistan separatist, ⁣India and ⁢Canada have begun efforts to mend relations. Prime Minister Narendra ‍Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney have agreed‍ to the early return of high commissioners and⁢ the resumption of stalled trade negotiations.

The agreement occurred during a bilateral meeting at the G7 summit. Both⁤ leaders emphasized mutual respect for each other’s concerns, strong interpersonal connections, and ‍economic cooperation ⁣as vital for a balanced relationship, according to officials.

India’s foreign secretary, Vikram Misri, described the 40-minute meeting as positive and constructive. He said⁢ both countries are committed to taking measured ⁢steps to ⁢restore ⁢stability, including resuming⁢ high-level⁤ trade discussions and ministerial engagements to ‍rebuild trust.

While discussions included India’s security concerns, especially regarding anti-India elements, both sides avoided publicizing these details, signaling a desire ‍to ⁢prevent the Khalistan⁤ issue ⁣from overshadowing the meeting.⁢ The Canadian statement mentioned transnational crime and repression, a key focus for canada at the G7 summit, but⁢ did not directly reference the murder of Hardeep⁢ singh Nijjar.

Both ⁤Modi and Carney acknowledged the importance of the India-Canada relationship,emphasizing shared democratic values,respect for‍ the rule‍ of law,and commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity.They also discussed restarting negotiations on⁣ the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), with the goal of establishing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement⁣ (CEPA). Canada had suspended these talks ⁤in 2023 amid strained relations.

Both countries ⁤have already selected senior diplomats for the high commissioner positions, with assignments ⁤expected to begin soon. this move aims to restore regular services for citizens⁢ and businesses in ⁣both nations.

The leaders also highlighted the ⁣strong people-to-people connections between India ⁣and Canada, agreeing to leverage this “living bridge” to benefit both countries. They plan ‍to collaborate on global priorities such as ‍climate⁤ action,⁤ inclusive growth, and sustainable advancement.modi and Carney also reaffirmed their shared ‍interest in promoting a ⁢free ⁣and open indo-Pacific region.

Misri‍ added that ⁢discussions would resume on ‍connectivity and collaboration in areas like clean energy, digital infrastructure,⁣ artificial intelligence, food security, and critical mineral ⁤supply ⁤chains.

Looking Ahead

The resumption of diplomatic and trade talks signals a potential thaw in India-Canada relations.While challenges remain, both nations‍ appear committed to‍ rebuilding trust and fostering a more balanced and mutually beneficial partnership. The⁤ focus on economic⁣ cooperation and addressing security‍ concerns coudl pave the way for stronger ties in the future.