Canada's resolve to address India's concerns on test

A collaborative approach towards a new chapter in bilateral ties was a key takeaway from last week’s talks between National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and his Canadian counterpart Nathalie Drouin. Working closely to combat terrorism and transnational crimes formed a critical element. The arrest of Khalistani terrorist Inderjit Singh Gosal in Canada appears to be in sync with efforts to repair strained ties and address Indian concerns. Gosal is an aide of US-based pro-Khalistan terrorist Gurpatwant Singh Pannun. This is the second time he has been arrested. Last year, he was taken into custody in connection with a violent incident at a temple, but was granted conditional release.

The talks between the NSAs came three weeks after India and Canada appointed envoys, ending an unprecedented low in an otherwise cordial relationship. The ties hit rock bottom following then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations in 2023 of a potential Indian link to the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, who had been designated a terrorist by the National Investigation Agency. Calling the accusations “absurd and motivated”, India sharply criticised Canada for providing shelter to Sikh separatists. Trudeau’s exit marked an end to the symbolic face of the pro-Khalistan tilt in Canadian governance. Successor Mark Carney’s victory in the April elections helped in starting the process to mend fences. As the two sides actively attempt to iron out differences, on test will be Ottawa’s resolve to act against those bent upon fomenting terror and acting against India’s national security interests under the guise of protected speech.

Beyond economics and an intense cross-cultural engagement through the large Indian diaspora in Canada, both nations share foundational values such as multiculturalism and democracy. The focus must be on finding common ground and creating new opportunities for cooperation.