New Delhi, September 20, 2025 – The already fragile relations between India and Canada have once again come into the spotlight, with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau facing renewed diplomatic challenges. The latest development comes after Canadian National Security Advisor Nathalie Drouin and Deputy Foreign Minister David Morrison arrived in Delhi this week, signaling a fresh attempt to repair strained ties that nearly collapsed following Trudeau’s controversial remarks a year ago.
The Root of the Rift
Relations between India and Canada have traditionally been based on shared values, strong economic links, and cultural ties, strengthened by the vibrant Indian diaspora in Canada. However, tensions escalated sharply in 2023 when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly accused India of involvement in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.
India vehemently rejected the claims, calling them “absurd and politically motivated.” The allegations not only sparked outrage in New Delhi but also froze bilateral discussions. Trade negotiations were stalled, diplomatic exchanges slowed, and political rhetoric on both sides worsened the rift.
Adding fuel to the fire, Canadian intelligence officials Nathalie Drouin and David Morrison were linked in reports by the Washington Post, which suggested they had passed sensitive information to U.S. agencies and accused India’s Home Minister Amit Shah of targeting separatist groups. India lodged strong protests, marking one of the lowest points in bilateral relations in recent history.
Why Trudeau Sent His Top Advisors to Delhi
The turning point appears to have come in 2025, when Trudeau’s government, under mounting domestic and international pressure, decided to recalibrate its approach. Sending Drouin and Morrison to Delhi to meet Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval was more than symbolic—it represented Ottawa’s recognition that constructive dialogue was the only path forward.
According to diplomatic sources, the agenda was wide-ranging but focused on three critical areas:
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Counterterrorism and Security Cooperation – India reiterated its demand that Canada take strong action against Khalistani extremist elements operating on Canadian soil.
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Extradition of Terror Suspects – New Delhi pressed for the extradition of individuals facing terrorism charges in India but currently residing in Canada.
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Energy and Trade – Both sides acknowledged the importance of reviving stalled trade negotiations and expanding cooperation in energy security.
In response, Canada assured New Delhi of greater intelligence sharing and deeper cooperation on counterterrorism, marking a subtle but significant policy shift.
A Diplomatic Thaw in Sight?
The high-level meeting is now being seen as a potential turning point. For India, the key test will be whether Trudeau translates these assurances into tangible actions against extremist groups in Canada. For Ottawa, balancing domestic political sensitivities—particularly the influence of pro-Khalistan elements in Canadian politics—with the strategic necessity of engaging India remains a difficult challenge.
Experts note that India is a crucial partner for Canada not only in trade but also in global diplomacy. With Canada seeking to diversify its economic ties away from China, India’s fast-growing market and geopolitical influence make it an indispensable partner. Conversely, India values Canadian investment, technology, and the presence of nearly 1.6 million people of Indian origin in Canada as a bridge between the two nations.
Trudeau’s Diplomatic Test
Whether this thaw leads to a full restoration of trust will depend largely on Justin Trudeau’s political will. If his government can deliver on promises of stronger counterterrorism cooperation and take visible steps against extremist activities, relations could return to a constructive track. But if Ottawa fails to act, the shadow of suspicion may continue to haunt India-Canada ties.
For now, the visit of Canada’s top officials to Delhi has injected a dose of optimism. Both nations have signaled that dialogue is still possible, even after one of the most turbulent phases in their bilateral relationship. The coming months will determine if Trudeau can truly mend the cracks—or if this is merely a diplomatic pause before tensions flare again.
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