India and Canada Agree to Restore High Commissioners, Revive Trade Talks
India and Canada agreed to designate new high commissioners and restore diplomatic stability during a meeting between PM Narendra Modi and Canadian PM Mark Carney at the G7 Summit. This marks a significant step to mend ties strained since Canada's allegations regarding Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing. Both nations will also restart negotiations on the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA) and enhance cooperation in various sectors, aiming for regular services for citizens and businesses.
Unpacked:
Hardeep Singh Nijjar was a Canadian Sikh leader and activist associated with the Khalistan movement, which seeks an independent Sikh state in India. His killing in 2023 led Canada to allege Indian government involvement, causing a major diplomatic rift as India denied the accusations and both nations expelled diplomats.
The Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA) is a proposed trade pact aimed at boosting bilateral trade and investment between India and Canada. It serves as a stepping stone towards a comprehensive free trade agreement and is important because it can enhance economic ties, create jobs, and facilitate greater cooperation in sectors like technology, agriculture, and services.
During the diplomatic row, both India and Canada restricted consular services, expelled diplomats, and issued travel advisories, causing delays in visas, reduced diplomatic support, and disruptions for students, tourists, and businesses. These measures complicated travel, trade, and daily affairs for citizens and business communities in both countries.
India and Canada have had fluctuating relations since establishing diplomatic ties in 1947. Major strains included India's nuclear tests in 1974 and 1998, the 1985 Air India bombing, and disputes over Sikh separatism. Relations improved with economic liberalization in the 1990s and cooperation agreements, but tensions resurfaced with recent allegations over Nijjar’s killing.