India-Canada hold first bilateral talks in effort to mend strained relations

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney held their first formal bilateral talks on Tuesday, aiming to reset diplomatic ties that have been strained for nearly two years following allegations linking India to the killing of a Canadian Sikh separatist in 2023.

Despite the backdrop of past tensions, the meeting at the G7 summit in Alberta was marked by cordiality, with Carney warmly welcoming Modi to the gathering. India had been invited as a special guest due to its growing role in global trade and supply chains.
Both leaders described the talks as constructive. According to a statement from Carney’s office, the two agreed to appoint new ambassadors, replacing the diplomats both countries had withdrawn during the diplomatic fallout.
India has consistently rejected Canada’s accusations of involvement in the killing, and both governments are now seeking to strengthen international partnerships amid shifting global trade dynamics and ongoing conflicts.
Carney emphasized the importance of India's participation at the summit, calling it “an honor” to host Modi. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties based on mutual respect, adherence to the rule of law, and recognition of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Modi echoed the positive tone, writing on X, “Had an excellent meeting... India and Canada share a deep commitment to democracy, freedom, and the rule of law,” marking his first visit to Canada in a decade.
However, Modi’s visit was met with criticism from segments of Canada’s Sikh community, many of whom believe the Canadian government should have set conditions before engaging with India. In Calgary, a small group of Sikh protesters demonstrated by tearing Indian flags in opposition to Modi’s presence.
Last year, Canada expelled six Indian diplomats, accusing them of links to the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh leader, and alleging broader efforts by Indian agencies to target dissidents within Canada.