India, Canada Signal Reset As Anita Anand Visits India

NEW DELHI – In what analysts view as a measured step toward repairing strained relations, Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand met with External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar in New Delhi on October 13, emphasizing that both governments agree on the importance of “elevating the relationship further.”

Anand highlighted that a forthcoming India-Canada joint statement would outline plans for re-engagement across areas including critical minerals, clean energy, artificial intelligence, and climate cooperation. She described recent security and law enforcement meetings as “productive,” signaling intent to sustain dialogue after a year of diplomatic friction.

Jaishankar echoed her remarks, noting that ties had “steadily progressed” over the past months, supported by meetings between national security advisers and trade ministers. He said both sides were “working to restore and reinvigorate mechanisms necessary to advance the partnership,” pointing to shared interests in technology, civil nuclear collaboration, and agriculture.

Analysts note that the meeting reflects a cautious normalization following tensions in 2023, when allegations over separatist activities and political rhetoric had frozen diplomatic exchanges. The appointment of new high commissioners and the leaders’ interaction at the G7 Summit in June have since paved the way for pragmatic cooperation.

Anand’s visit—her first as foreign minister—will include engagements in Mumbai focused on investment and job creation. Observers say both countries seek strategic alignment amid shifting global dynamics.