"A Necessary First Step": Carney and Modi Begin Rebuilding Ties Amid Lingering Tensions Over Nijjar Case

Canada and India Signal Diplomatic Thaw after G7 Leaders' Meeting

In a significant diplomatic development, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have taken a crucial first step toward mending strained relations. Following their first bilateral meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, the two nations have agreed to reinstate High Commissioners in each other's capitals. The move signals a mutual desire to rebuild trust after a period of significant friction, even as sensitive issues like the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar remain a point of careful discussion.

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Prime Minister Carney addressed the press with caution when detailing his conversation with PM Modi regarding the June 2023 killing of the Khalistani terrorist on Canadian soil. Citing the active judicial process, he was measured in his commentary but confirmed that the leaders had a "frank, open exchange" on the importance of law enforcement cooperation and the need to address transnational repression. This dialogue addresses the core of the dispute that escalated after former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged the involvement of Indian government agents in the killing—a claim India has consistently denied, citing a lack of evidence from Ottawa.

Describing the meeting as "foundational and a necessary first step," Carney emphasised that both leaders agreed to establish the groundwork for a relationship based on mutual respect and sovereignty. The decision to reappoint High Commissioners is the most concrete outcome of this commitment, marking a clear break from the diplomatic chill of the past two years. This positive step was reinforced by a shared vision for strengthening ties across various sectors, moving beyond the recent tensions.

Prime Minister Carney also took the opportunity to highlight India's significant global standing. He praised the dynamism of the Indian economy and technology, noting that PM Modi's consistent attendance at the G7 since 2018 is a natural reflection of India’s leadership on the world stage. "As Chair of the G7, hosting the Prime Minister in that context is entirely natural," Carney remarked, underscoring his expectation that India will continue to be a key partner in global forums.

While the path to fully normalised relations may require further dialogue, this initial meeting has successfully established a new, more constructive tone. By agreeing to restart high-level diplomatic representation, both leaders have signaled a clear intention to move their countries' relationship forward, balancing the need to address difficult issues with a shared vision for future cooperation.