Modi–Carney talks signal potential revival of India–Canada diplomatic ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Premier Mark Carney held a pivotal meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis on June 17, agreeing to take calibrated steps toward restoring full diplomatic engagement—including the early re‑appointment of High Commissioners to each other's capitals—after nearly two years of strained relations.

The bilateral relationship reached a low point in 2023 when Canada’s Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) publicly accused India of involvement in the killing of Indian-origin Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia.

The charges led to mutual diplomatic expulsions and a significant freeze in cooperation.

During the talks, both leaders reaffirmed the importance of sovereignty, democratic values, and the rule of law, agreeing to re‑instate diplomatic missions and resume key ministerial and working‑level exchanges.

In addition to reinvigorating diplomatic presence, Modi and Carney committed to restarting stalled trade negotiations, including early-progress talks that could lead to a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).

Both sides also expressed interest in expanding cooperation across clean energy, digital transformation, critical minerals, food security, and higher education—areas identified as mutual priorities for deeper collaboration.

Expressing its intent to move forward thoughtfully, Carney described the meeting as "foundational," aimed at rebuilding trust and restoring stability through structured engagements in law enforcement and strategic dialogue—a calibrated restart that maintains respect for both nations' sensitivities.