External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held his first telephonic conversation with Anita Anand, Canada’s new Minister of Foreign Affairs, on May 26.
The two leaders discussed prospects for strengthening bilateral ties and deepening economic cooperation between India and Canada.
Anand took to the social media platform X to thank EAM Jaishankar for the ‘productive discussion’ focused on advancing shared priorities and enhancing collaboration.
She expressed eagerness to continue working closely with India to build on their growing partnership.
Jaishankar also confirmed the discussion via his official X account, stating he appreciated the teleconference and wished Anand a successful tenure as Canada’s Foreign Minister.
Anita Anand, a seasoned lawmaker who recently assumed the role of Foreign Minister, previously held key portfolios including Innovation, Science, Industry, and Defence.
Her appointment followed Canada’s recent parliamentary elections that brought Prime Minister Mark Carney to power, signalling a fresh chapter in Indo-Canadian relations.
Carney, who is set to host the G7 Summit from June 15 to 17, has prioritised rebuilding ties with India, describing the bilateral relationship as ‘incredibly important’ and emphasising strong personal, economic, and strategic connections between the two nations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated Carney on his election victory, highlighting the longstanding people-to-people ties and expressing optimism about unlocking greater opportunities between India and Canada.
India-Canada relations faced serious challenges in 2023 following unproven allegations linking India to the killing of pro-Khalistan terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil.
The accusations, dismissed by India as ‘absurd’ and ‘politically motivated’, led to diplomatic expulsions on both sides, a freeze on trade talks, and the suspension of official visits.
India also criticised Canada for tolerating extremist activities and failing to protect Indian diplomats, adding tension to bilateral ties.
The new Canadian government under Carney has expressed a clear intention to repair and strengthen relations.
The telephonic conversation between EAM Jaishankar and Minister Anand marks a positive step toward resetting India-Canada relations.
Both sides appear committed to fostering a collaborative partnership focused on economic growth, counterterrorism, and global cooperation.
With the G7 Summit approaching, India and Canada are actively exploring new avenues of dialogue and cooperation, moving beyond past differences to build a resilient, mutually beneficial relationship.
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