New Delhi – After months of strained exchanges and frosty silence, India and Canada are now working to turn the page. The two nations, often described as natural partners but frequently divided by political disagreements, have agreed to open what officials are calling a “new chapter” in their ties.
The breakthrough came during a meeting in New Delhi between India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval and his Canadian counterpart Jody Thomas. The talks, held away from the spotlight, carried both symbolism and substance. For the first time in months, the focus shifted from accusations and mistrust to cooperation and common ground.
According to officials, the discussions centered around three major themes: rebuilding trust, enhancing security collaboration, and re-energizing economic relations. Counter-terrorism featured prominently, as India has long raised concerns about extremist activities linked to groups in Canada. The Canadian side, sources said, expressed readiness to address security concerns while also exploring opportunities to boost trade and investment.
The tone of the meeting, described by one observer as “frank but forward-looking,” marks a clear contrast to the rhetoric that has defined the relationship in recent years. Instead of trading barbs, both sides appeared willing to acknowledge past differences while searching for areas of cooperation. “There was a sense that neither country can afford prolonged hostility, especially in today’s shifting global order,” a senior official remarked.
For India, the reset could help expand its partnerships with Western democracies at a time when geopolitical alignments are being redrawn. For Canada, repairing ties with India — the world’s most populous country and a rising economic powerhouse — is seen as critical to its Indo-Pacific strategy.
No formal agreements were signed, but the message from both capitals was unmistakable: dialogue has resumed, and the intent is serious. Officials hinted that further engagements, including ministerial-level interactions, are being planned in the coming months.
As the dust settles on a difficult chapter, the question now is whether words of cooperation can translate into durable action. For millions of people connected through trade, education, and family ties, the prospect of a more stable relationship between India and Canada offers a rare note of optimism in an otherwise turbulent diplomatic climate.