India-Canada Agree to Resume Full Diplomatic Ties After Year-Long Standoff

India and Canada have agreed to bring back full diplomatic services, putting an end to a year-long standoff that began after the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada in 2023.

The breakthrough came during a meeting between Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G7 Leaders’ Summit in Alberta. Both leaders agreed to appoint new high commissioners and return to normal diplomatic and consular services, allowing smoother support for citizens and businesses in both countries.

In a statement, Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Modi stressed the importance of the India-Canada relationship, based on mutual respect and cooperation. They spoke about strong cultural ties, trade partnerships, and collaboration in areas like energy, food security, and digital technology.

Carney also brought up key global concerns being discussed at the G7, such as crime that crosses borders, international security, and the need to stick to global rules.

The India-Canada relationship hit a low point last year when former Canadian PM Justin Trudeau claimed there were “credible allegations” of India’s involvement in Nijjar’s killing. India rejected the claims, calling them “baseless” and accused Canada of sheltering extremist elements.

Following the allegations, India withdrew several diplomats after they were flagged by Canadian authorities. India also accused Canada of breaking international norms by putting its diplomats under surveillance, leading to a formal protest.

Also Read: Canada Draws the Line — and Carney Holds the Pen