Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, speaking after his bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, described their conversation as a “foundational first step” toward mending strained ties.
The leaders addressed several pressing issues, including the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada last year, a matter that sparked a major diplomatic standoff between the two countries.
Speaking about the same, Carney told the reporters, “We discussed the importance of having law enforcement dialogue, not just dialogue, cooperation directly, the importance of addressing transnational repression." He further said that he had to be “careful about further commentary” due to the ongoing judicial process.
The Nijjar killing in June 2023 triggered international headlines after Carney’s predecessor, Justin Trudeau, accused Indian agents of involvement, an allegation India rejected outright, citing lack of evidence and due diplomatic process.
India and Canada to Reinstate High Commissioners
Despite the tensions, the meeting signalled a clear shift in tone and intention. Both countries agreed to reinstate High Commissioners in their respective capitals, after nearly two years of frosty exchanges.
Describing the dialogue as “frank” and “open,” Carney said, “An agreement to provide the necessary foundations to begin rebuilding a relationship based on mutual respect, sovereignty, and trust.” PM Modi, in response, congratulated Carney on his recent election win and spoke of new opportunities for cooperation across sectors.
Carney also acknowledged India’s growing global stature, praising PM Modi’s consistent participation in G7 summits since 2018. “That is entirely natural, entirely consistent,” he said, adding he “fully expects” Modi to attend the next G7 in France.
