
Canadian Foreign Minister was Prioritizing Diplomatic Advancements
New Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand declared that she is dedicated to revitalizing relations with India. She had just taken office and has already had a telephonic conversation with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. They exchanged diplomatic views on several matters over the call.
Clear Message about Rule of Law and Continuing Investigations
Anand reiterated that she is moving ahead to strengthen the ties with New Delhi. She made it clear that the Canadian government will never back down on the rule of law. Speaking about the probe into the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, she stated that the process is still on.
Strengthening Global Connections, Including to India
Anand further added that developing positive relations with India is Canada's overall strategy of improving its global alliances. She reaffirmed her commitment to making practical actions towards the end.
Prime Minister Carney Delves into Renewed Engagement
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has also shown favor in re-establishing the relations with India. He admitted that the relation had been tense in the past Trudeau government. Canadians have significant personal, economic, and strategic connections with India, as claimed by Carney. He committed to finding solutions to problems that caused the diplomatic collapse.
Background: Tensions Between India and Canada
India-Canada relations, once close partners, have been strained. Relations soured following a claim by former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that Indian operatives could have been involved in the assassination of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India vehemently denied this.
Relations between Canada and India then went into decline on diplomatic and trade levels.
With Carney's Liberal Party achieving the recent elections in a dominating win, expectations for better relations are on the increase. Carney's favorable attitude towards India can contribute to both nations strengthening their long-time alliance.