Carney Plans to Strengthen Ties with India If He Returns To Power

Canadian Prime Minister candidate Mark Carney has signaled that he may reset relations with India if he returns to power. He emphasized the importance of the Canada-India relationship, highlighting its personal, economic, and strategic significance.

Importance of the Canada-India Relationship

During a recent campaign event, Carney told Y Media, “It’s an incredibly important relationship, the Canada-India relationship, on many levels.” He pointed out that the ties between the two countries are deep, with Canadians having strong personal connections to India. He also noted the economic and strategic importance of the partnership.

Addressing Strained Ties

While Carney did not directly discuss the murder of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, he acknowledged the existing tensions between Canada and India. He explained, “There are strains on that relationship that we didn’t cause, to be clear, but there is a path forward to address those with mutual respect and to build out.” His comments suggest that efforts could be made to improve the relationship.

The Global Context

Carney’s remarks came against the backdrop of ongoing challenges. These include trade tensions with the U.S. and concerns over Canada’s relationship with its largest trading partner. Carney stated, “Countries like Canada, like India specifically, can play an outsize role in building an open, shared economy, shared ideas, a shared relationship.” He sees this as an opportunity to foster stronger ties between Canada and India.

This is not the first time Carney has expressed such views. Earlier this year, during his campaign for the Liberal Party leadership, he said Canada needed “new friends and new allies,” mentioning India specifically. He further suggested that Canada should diversify its trading relationships, including rebuilding ties with India.

Influence of the U.S. and Global Changes

The shift in Carney’s tone may be a response to the changing global dynamics. The threats from U.S. President Donald Trump, along with concerns about Canada’s relationship with the U.S., have prompted a reevaluation of Canada’s foreign policy. Carney sees potential in strengthening ties with India to counter these challenges.

Senior Ministers Back the Reset

Carney’s senior ministers have also supported this shift in direction. One minister mentioned that Carney has strong connections in New Delhi and with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government. They believe Carney could leverage these relationships to improve ties between the two countries. Another minister said Ottawa would seek a “major reset” under Carney’s leadership.

Tensions Under Trudeau’s Leadership

Relations between Canada and India deteriorated in September 2023 when Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly stated there were “credible allegations” linking Indian agents to Nijjar’s killing. This statement worsened ties, leading to the need for a new approach.

Steps to Restore Normalcy

Experts suggest several actions to restore normalcy in Canada-India relations. These include inviting Indian Prime Minister Modi to the G7 Leaders’ Summit and considering a high-level inquiry into Nijjar’s murder. Both countries are expected to appoint High Commissioners after Canada’s new government is formed, signaling a potential thaw in relations.

India’s Softened Stance

India has also shown signs of softening its stance. In March 2024, Indian Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal expressed hope for rebuilding ties with Canada based on mutual trust and sensitivity.

Carney’s approach indicates a possible shift in Canada’s foreign policy, with a focus on strengthening ties with India.