In a dramatic diplomatic reset, PM Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney agreed to fully restore India-Canada relations after nearly two years of bitter tensions, reopening the door to renewed engagement across trade, security, and global challenges.
Meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Modi and Carney struck a reconciliatory tone, pledging to reinstate High Commissioners in each other’s capitals and resume senior-level talks across multiple sectors.
The breakthrough marks Modi’s first visit to Canada in a decade — and the first face-to-face dialogue since 2023, when relations plunged into crisis over allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of pro-Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, accusations New Delhi dismissed as “absurd” and “politically motivated.”
Describing the talks as “very positive and constructive,” India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri said both leaders committed to “calibrated steps” aimed at stabilizing this “critical partnership.”
Beyond restoring full diplomatic representation, Modi and Carney agreed to restart cooperation on a sweeping agenda that includes trade expansion, people-to-people exchanges, connectivity, clean energy, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, digital infrastructure, and food security.
“Areas like trade, energy, space, clean energy, critical minerals, fertilizers and more offer immense potential,” Modi said following the meeting, lauding Carney and Canada for successfully hosting the G7 Summit.
Carney, acknowledging India’s rising global stature, remarked, “India has been coming to the G7 since 2019 — a testament to your leadership and your country’s vital role as we tackle global challenges from energy security to terrorism.”
In a joint statement, Carney’s office emphasized shared democratic values, rule of law, and mutual respect, underlining both leaders’ resolve to fully re-engage and restore essential services for citizens and businesses.
The breakthrough signals a decisive turn in a prolonged diplomatic freeze marked by expelled diplomats and suspended negotiations following the 2023 Nijjar controversy.
Modi’s high-profile visit now sets the stage for a comprehensive revival of one of the world’s key bilateral relationships.
