Canada is ready to rebuild and advance its relationship with India, its envoy in New Delhi, Christopher Cooter, said.
Cooter said both leaders are pragmatic and share a clear vision for their countries. “I think there's a confidence about each other that we didn't have before, and I feel that we are ready to move forward,” he said, adding that recent efforts have helped stabilise the relationship after a “rocky period.”
Relations between the two countries had worsened in 2024 after Canada alleged potential involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen wanted by India. Ottawa had also linked senior Indian diplomat Sanjay Kumar Verma to the case, allegations New Delhi rejected before withdrawing him.
Cooter said the political environment in Canada has since “shifted somewhat,” leading to a better understanding between the two sides. He added that both countries now have mechanisms and trust in place to manage disagreements pragmatically.
Despite tensions, economic ties remained strong. Cooter noted that Canadian investments in India total about $100 billion, with companies employing tens of thousands of people in both countries. Around 100,000 Indians work for Canadian firms, while Indian companies employ about 50,000 people in Canada.
Looking ahead, Canada aims to position itself as a reliable energy partner for India, with potential exports of oil, LNG, and metallurgical coal starting around 2027. Cooperation is also expected in uranium, nuclear energy, critical minerals, and mining technology.
Cooter said Ottawa is also addressing concerns of Indian students by increasing financial requirements, reducing visa processing times, and improving housing support. He added that Canadian universities may expand into India through campuses, joint degrees, and other collaborations in the coming months.
He said continued growth in trade and investment during the diplomatic strain reflects a strong foundation, adding that the relationship is now “positioned to go forward.”