Canadian FM lands in Delhi to reset relations, push strategic cooperation

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand arrived in New Delhi on Sunday, marking a key step in efforts to reset bilateral relations and build a framework for deeper strategic cooperation between India and Canada.

On her first official visit to India since assuming office, Anand is scheduled to hold talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal. “This visit will help build on the positive momentum in India–Canada relations by revitalising our bilateral mechanisms, deepening economic cooperation, and further strengthening the enduring people-to-people ties that anchor our partnership,” MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal said.

Discussions are expected to focus on trade diversification, energy transition, investment, and security cooperation. Anand will also travel to Mumbai to meet Canadian and Indian business leaders in a bid to strengthen partnerships aimed at creating jobs and expanding economic opportunities in both countries.

Her visit comes amid a cautious thaw following a period of strained relations that reached a historic low after the 2023 diplomatic row over allegations linking India to the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a claim New Delhi dismissed as “absurd and motivated”. The fallout saw both countries expelling diplomats and suspending visa services.