On May 25, 2025, Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar engaged in a constructive telephone conversation with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand. The discussion centered on enhancing bilateral economic ties between India and Canada, as both nations aim to advance shared interests.
Minister Anand expressed her appreciation for the dialogue, describing it as “productive” and emphasizing the importance of deepening cooperation between the two countries. She noted on social media, “Thank you, Minister @DrSJaishankar, for the productive discussion today on strengthening Canada-India ties, deepening our economic cooperation, and advancing shared priorities. I look forward to continuing our work together.”
This conversation comes on the heels of previous tensions that strained India-Canada relations, particularly during Justin Trudeau’s tenure as Prime Minister. Allegations of potential involvement by Indian agents in incidents on Canadian soil, made by Trudeau in September 2023, had led to significant diplomatic friction. Nevertheless, recent developments suggest a willingness to mend ties, especially following Trudeau's recent electoral defeat.
India responded strongly to Trudeau’s allegations, calling them “absurd,” and further diplomatic relations deteriorated after Ottawa associated several Indian diplomats with the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. In a reciprocal move, India expelled an equal number of Canadian diplomats.
Recently, security officials from both nations resumed discussions, sparking hopes of appointing new high commissioners and restoring bilateral relations. The end of Trudeau’s government is seen in India as a potential turning point for improved collaboration, founded on “mutual trust and sensitivity,” as stated by external affairs ministry spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal in March.
