India and Canada have resumed diplomatic and security discussions following tensions due to the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Potential appointments for new high commissioners are being considered, with Dinesh K Patnaik as a frontrunner. Challenges remain, including legal proceedings and political changes in Canada, which may affect ties. Improved cooperation on security issues and trade is anticipated as both nations navigate their relationship moving forward.
India and Canada have rekindled discussions through diplomatic and security channels, aiming to restore their diplomatic relations after the turmoil surrounding the 2023 assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. These talks, which resumed around December, followed a significant downturn in relations when India recalled its high commissioner and expelled Canadian diplomats over the Nijjar incident.
Currently, India is considering several diplomats for the high commission position in Ottawa, with Dinesh K Patnaik, the Indian ambassador to Spain, being a leading candidate. Patnaik, a senior diplomat with extensive experience, notably served as deputy envoy to the UK, which may enhance his understanding of the Khalistan issue, pertinent to the Canadian context. No official statements have yet emerged regarding these potential appointments, as discussions continue.
With the Canadian G7 presidency upcoming in 2025, there is speculation regarding a high-profile meeting that could signal a thaw in relations, particularly at the summit in Alberta. However, it remains uncertain whether India will receive an invitation. The shift in Canadian leadership from Justin Trudeau, who escalated the diplomatic rift, to Mike Carney, who has expressed a desire for better ties with India, could facilitate this rapprochement.
Nevertheless, challenges remain, including ongoing legal proceedings regarding individuals implicated in Nijjar’s murder and the approaching Canadian federal elections, which may influence the direction of foreign policy. Carney has publicly indicated a commitment to enhancing economic relations with India as part of diversifying Canada’s trade partnerships.
Security collaboration between India and Canada has reportedly become more active following difficult negotiations between national security officials last October. This includes recent meetings between Indian law enforcement and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, focused on organized crime and the Nijjar investigation, signaling a renewed cooperative spirit.
Additionally, recent activities, such as law enforcement raids in India linked to a significant gold heist under investigation in Canada, suggest practical cooperation on transnational crime is underway. The participation of Canadian intelligence officials in international security discussions hosted by India further underscores the reestablishment of security dialogues, marking progress in addressing shared concerns.
The withdrawal of six Indian diplomats last October amid allegations of involvement in violent criminal activities exacerbated diplomatic tensions. This crisis was precipitated by Trudeau’s claims on September 18, 2023, regarding Indian government links to Nijjar’s death, which India vehemently refuted, demanding evidence. Reports suggest that the change in Canadian leadership may resolve some underlying issues, potentially leading to improved relations.
The resumption of diplomatic conversations between India and Canada marks a crucial step towards improving relations that have been strained following the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Despite ongoing challenges, including ongoing legal issues and upcoming political changes in Canada, both nations appear poised to reestablish a collaborative framework, particularly in security and trade. The leadership changes in Canada provide a fresh opportunity for negotiation, signaling a potential thaw in relations.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
