Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand emphasized Canada’s commitment to public safety, transnational repression, and foreign interference in the ongoing trade negotiations with India. Anand underscored the government’s prioritization of these issues, not only with India but with all nations, stating that security is paramount.
Anand mentioned that Canada is recalibrating its economic ties with India while ensuring the independence and effectiveness of Canadian law enforcement agencies. The announcement of trade negotiations between Canada and India followed a meeting between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 summit in South Africa.
Carney expressed optimism about the potential trade deal, suggesting that it could double Canada-India trade to $70 billion, highlighting the economic opportunities for Canadian businesses. The warming relations between Canada and India signal a shift from past tensions related to allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of a Sikh activist on Canadian soil.
Anand acknowledged the evolving global trade landscape, referencing changes like U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, prompting Canada to adapt its foreign policy focus accordingly. She affirmed that Canada’s core values, including safeguarding democratic institutions from transnational repression, remain integral to its foreign policy approach.
India’s High Commissioner to Canada, Dinesh Patnaik, emphasized the importance of addressing security concerns while fostering stronger bilateral ties. Patnaik stressed the need for a relationship that prioritizes the safety of citizens in both countries.
In parallel, Canadian Sikhs conducted a referendum in Ottawa advocating for an independent Sikh Punjab, coinciding with the trade announcement. Organizations like Sikhs for Justice expressed their disapproval of the Canadian government’s engagement with India, citing over 53,000 Canadian Sikhs participating in the referendum.
Despite differing perspectives, diplomatic efforts between Canada and India aim to deepen economic cooperation while addressing security challenges. Carney highlighted the significance of India as a reliable trading partner and emphasized the need for vigilance against foreign interference, indicating ongoing collaboration between Canadian and Indian law enforcement agencies.