Canada’s Foreign Minister Meets Modi as India-Canada Relations Warm
NEW DELHI – Canadian foreign Minister Anita Anand met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New delhi on Monday, signaling a further thaw in relations between the two countries following a period of significant strain. The meeting underscores a renewed commitment to strengthening bilateral ties, particularly in areas of trade, investment, and Indo-Pacific cooperation.
The visit comes as India and Canada work to rebuild trust after a diplomatic dispute sparked by allegations of Canadian involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Sikh leader, in June 2023. While investigations continue, both nations have expressed a desire to move forward, recognizing the importance of their longstanding relationship. The resumption of high-level dialog is seen as a crucial step in stabilizing ties and unlocking opportunities for collaboration.
During her visit, Anand also held talks with External affairs Minister S Jaishankar, who stated that India views Canada as a ”complementary economy” and an “open society,” laying the foundation for a ”close sustainable and long-term cooperative framework.” Anand affirmed a “collective commitment to advancing this relationship now and in the long term, particularly when it comes to our mutual priorities in the Indo-Pacific.”
Both countries announced the resumption of the Canada-India CEO Forum, designed to boost bilateral trade and investment. This announcement is particularly timely for India, wich is currently navigating a 50% tariff imposed by the United States on certain Indian goods. Anand is also scheduled to meet with Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal and engage with business leaders in Mumbai to explore further economic opportunities.
Anand’s trip extends beyond India, encompassing visits to China and Singapore as part of Canada’s broader Indo-pacific strategy, aimed at deepening engagement across the region.
