India and Canada are advancing national security cooperation following National Security Advisor Ajit Doval’s meeting with Canada’s Deputy Clerk and National Security and Intelligence Advisor Nathalie Drouin in Ottawa on February 7. The discussions, part of a bilateral security dialogue, highlighted progress in safeguarding citizens and established a joint work plan for enhanced collaboration on national security and law enforcement.
This development precedes Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s planned visit to India in March, aimed at bolstering trade agreements and overall bilateral relations.
Key Outcomes from the Talks
Both nations committed to stationing security and law enforcement liaison officers in each other’s countries to improve communication and enable real-time intelligence sharing on shared threats, including fentanyl precursors and transnational crime networks.
Additional agreements include formalizing cybersecurity policy cooperation and information exchange, alongside advancing discussions on fraud prevention and immigration enforcement in alignment with domestic laws and international obligations.
Background on Bilateral Relations
Relations between India and Canada reached a low in 2023 following the killing of Khalistani activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. Ottawa alleged New Delhi’s involvement, which India firmly rejected as unfounded. The dispute triggered a diplomatic standoff, with both sides expelling diplomats, reducing high commission staff, imposing visa restrictions, and suspending trade negotiations.
India criticized Canada for sheltering Khalistan supporters, viewing it as a base for anti-India activities. Public accusations from then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau intensified the rift, transforming former allies into adversaries amid concerns over extremism, foreign interference, and security.
Mark Carney’s assumption of the prime ministership in March 2025 ushered in a renewed focus on pragmatic partnerships. High commissions reopened by mid-2025, easing prior tensions. Ajit Doval’s Ottawa visit solidifies commitments on countering fentanyl smuggling, cyber threats, and intelligence sharing through liaison officers.
Geopolitical Influences
President Donald Trump’s return to office in 2025, coupled with tariff disputes and an “America First” policy, has strained the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA). These pressures encourage Canada to deepen ties with India, further revitalizing relations from the previous era.
