Modi Meets Carney: A Step Towards Renewed Relations

On Tuesday, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney. This encounter aimed at reviving diplomatic ties and focused on trade, key minerals, and the concept of a “free and open Indo-Pacific.”

This was their first official meeting and occurred during the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta. Even though India is not part of the G7, the host nation often invites leaders from countries of significance. Alongside Modi, Carney also welcomed leaders from Ukraine, Mexico, and South Korea.

Relations between India and Canada have seen better days. The previous Liberal Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, strained these ties, especially after a controversial visit to India in 2018, which included an extravagant outfit that raised eyebrows. More seriously, Trudeau openly criticized Modi’s government for its treatment of dissenters, claiming last year that there were indications of Canadian involvement in the assassination of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijar in British Columbia. This accusation compounded the tension, resulting in calls from Trudeau to downgrade diplomatic relations.

Historically, the Sikh community has been part of Canada since the early 1800s. Trudeau’s government welcomed more immigrants, including many from India, amid Modi’s administration imposing policies that marginalized various religious minorities, which has, in turn, stirred discontent among Indians living abroad. Concerns have specifically been raised about the Sikh nationalist movement advocating for an independent “Khalistan.” Nijar was a prominent figure within this movement.

Protests erupted in Canada in response to Modi’s invitation to the G7 this week. Sikh activist Moninder Singh emphasized that the matter extends beyond Sikh interests, stating, “This is actually a Canadian issue,” stressing perceived coercion from India towards Canadians, including politicians and the media.

According to a statement from the Canadian Prime Minister’s Office, Carney discussed “cross-border crime and oppression” with Modi, though specifics were not revealed. Modi’s team, in their statement, refrained from mentioning “cross-border oppression” yet acknowledged the commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The leaders agreed to appoint a new high commissioner to streamline diplomatic services. They touched upon the historical connections between their countries and emphasized collaboration in economic matters, energy, and more. This decision to restore full diplomatic channels marks a notable shift away from Trudeau’s previous restrictions on consular services in India, following allegations that some Canadian officials were engaging in clandestine activities tied to Nijar’s murder.

As Modi’s government seeks to enhance its global trade stance, particularly in manufacturing and technology, discussions included potential cooperation in clean energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals.

The phrase “Free and Open Indo-Pacific,” which has been associated with Japan’s foreign policy, reflects concerns about China’s territorial claims in the South China Sea. Modi’s government reaffirmed its commitment to shared democratic values and mutual respect in diplomatic relations with Canada.

During the meeting, Carney referred to hosting Modi as a “great honor,” while Modi expressed a desire for stronger collaboration moving forward. However, this diplomatic reset is shadowed by a recent report from Canada’s Security Intelligence Services (CSIS), alleging ongoing foreign interference by India in Canadian affairs and reiterating claims about the Indian government’s role in Nijar’s assassination.