Modi-Carney talks: India, Canada agree to post envoys; restore stability in ties

Modi-Carney talks: In a pivotal moment at the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart, Mark Carney, took decisive steps toward mending the strained India-Canada relations, which have been at their lowest point in recent history.

In their first bilateral meeting since Carney assumed office, the two leaders held comprehensive and candid discussions, setting the stage for a much-needed diplomatic reset. The talks were described by India’s Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) as “frank and forward-looking,” marking a significant shift from the frosty ties that followed a major diplomatic rift last year.

At the heart of this renewed engagement is a mutual agreement to pursue constructive and calibrated steps to restore stability, starting with the early return of high commissioners to each other’s capitals. This diplomatic thaw signals a shared intent to move beyond past grievances and focus on building a future based on mutual respect, democratic values, and economic synergy.

Modi-Carney talks: Turning the Page on a Tense Chapter

Relations between the two nations soured dramatically in 2023 after then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly suggested a potential Indian link to the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The allegations sparked a tit-for-tat expulsion of diplomats and a freeze in official communications.

However, Carney’s recent electoral victory brought a new tone to the conversation. The shift in leadership in Ottawa presented a timely opportunity for dialogue and reconciliation, and both sides appear eager to seize it.

“The meeting provided a timely opportunity for both sides to restart the conversation in a spirit of openness and partnership,” the MEA said, emphasizing that India-Canada relations are rooted in “shared democratic ideals, rule of law, and mutual sovereignty.”

Rebuilding Trust Through Strategic Engagement

Modi and Carney acknowledged the need to reboot senior ministerial dialogues and revive working-level engagements across key sectors. These efforts, they noted, are vital to rebuilding the broken trust and bringing momentum back to the bilateral relationship.

Particularly notable was the emphasis on restarting negotiations for the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), which could eventually pave the way for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). A stronger trade framework could unlock new avenues in clean energy, digital innovation, artificial intelligence, higher education, and the critical minerals sector.

In a post on social media, Modi underscored the shared values that bind the two democracies: “India and Canada are connected by a strong belief in democracy, freedom and the rule of law. PM Carney and I are committed to building on this foundation.”

Global Partnerships and Shared Priorities

Beyond bilateral ties, the two leaders discussed avenues of collaboration in addressing global challenges. Their conversation touched on issues such as climate change, sustainable development, inclusive economic growth, and maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific.

They reaffirmed a shared vision for strengthening supply chain resilience, enhancing mobility programs, and deepening cooperation in food security, critical priorities in an increasingly volatile global landscape.

Modi-Carney talks: A Living Bridge of People-to-People Ties

Perhaps one of the most powerful aspects of India-Canada relations is the deep-rooted connection between their people. With over 1.8 million Canadians of Indian origin, the leaders highlighted the cultural, educational, and familial bonds as a “living bridge” that must be leveraged for mutual benefit.

“The people-to-people ties between India and Canada are unbreakable and hold the key to deeper understanding and collaboration,” noted Carney. “This bridge is not just cultural, but also economic and innovative.”

Also Read : Kewal Kanda: Architect of Diaspora Unity and Champion of Grassroots Initiatives