Reflecting on recent history, Patnaik remarked, ‘The current state of our ties couldn’t be better after the challenges of the last two years.’ A key booster was the Modi-Carney summit at the G7 in Kananaskis, followed by high commissioner appointments and intensive ministerial engagements in foreign policy, commerce, energy, and more.

These interactions, including parliamentary and regional groups, addressed catching up on lost ground. Topics ranged from security and enforcement to mining, energy sectors, education, and AI advancements. Patnaik described the relationship as ‘back on track and moving forward with great strength.’

A forthcoming high-level visit from Canada is expected to underscore this momentum. Regarding CEPA, post-G20 commitments have paved the way; parliamentary notification ensures talks start soon after February or March onset.

Patnaik underscored India’s economic ascent as the fourth-largest globally, eyeing third place soon, backed by fresh deals with EFTA, EU, US, UK, Australia, and UAE. Both nations, as democracies upholding legal systems, media liberty, and free markets, converge on international stages like UN, G7, G20.

The pact will ease trade barriers, boost investments, enhance legislative ties, and deepen societal interactions. Notably, grassroots relations endured past strains: trade expanded, finance and academia flourished, with no disruptions in student flows, research, or innovation.

Canada’s vibrant Indian diaspora, coupled with enduring links in education and business, forms the bedrock. After security friction, official efforts now prioritize enduring stability and growth in these vital partnerships.

The discussions between Doval and Drouin covered issues such as action against terrorism, sharing of intelligence, and tackling organized crime. Both countries also stressed the importance of developing a common perspective on regional and global challenges. The Ministry of External Affairs stated that the process of building trust and working together between the leaders of India and Canada is rapidly advancing.

This meeting is considered a significant step towards improving relations, which soured after the 2023 assassination of Sikh separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. At the time, then-Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had accused India of involvement in Nijjar’s killing, leading to strained relations. Both countries had withdrawn their diplomats. Now, both countries have begun working towards rebuilding mutual trust. The groundwork for this meeting between NSA Doval and Nathalie was laid at the G7 Summit.

One point of contention was Trump repeatedly taking credit for the India-Pakistan ceasefire despite denials. According to reports, during a 35-minute phone conversation with PM Modi on June 17, Trump asserted that he was responsible for brokering the ceasefire. Modi clarified that the US played no role, yet Trump continued to make the claim over 40 times.

Another issue was Trump’s disappointment at not being nominated for a Nobel Prize. During the same phone call, Trump mentioned that Pakistan was considering nominating him for the Nobel Peace Prize and hinted that India should do the same. India did not comply, and Trump expressed displeasure. He had previously been nominated by countries like Israel, Cambodia, Azerbaijan, and Armenia.

Additionally, a meeting between Modi and Trump did not materialize during the G7 summit in Canada. Trump left the summit early, and though a discussion was planned, it did not happen. Modi declined Trump’s suggestion to travel to India through the US, citing prior commitments. Reports suggested that Modi also suspected Trump might attempt to arrange a meeting between him and Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir.

The Kashmir issue also presented a challenge. Modi reiterated that India would not accept third-party mediation on the Kashmir issue. The former Foreign Secretary of India revealed that Trump had offered to mediate to resolve the Kashmir issue. This occurred after Trump previously expressed interest in mediating the situation.

Following the phone call, tensions escalated, with Trump criticizing India. He labeled India a ‘dead economy’ and disparaged Indian trade policies, subsequently announcing a 50% tariff on Indian goods. According to sources, there have been no further communications between the two leaders since this discussion.

Furthermore, the US was pushing India to open its market for American farming and dairy products. India rejected the US demand for reduced tariffs on agricultural products, prioritizing the interests of domestic farmers despite higher costs. Consequently, India canceled trade talks and blocked the US delegation from entering Delhi. The sixth round of negotiations under the Bilateral Trade Agreement (BTA) was scheduled for August 25-29 but was halted after the fifth round failed in July due to disagreements over the import of American dairy products and GM crops.

Finally, India continues to purchase Russian oil despite US sanctions. The US imposed a 50% tariff on Indian goods on August 27, with a 25% penalty because India was buying oil from Russia, which the US claimed was helping the war effort. India has maintained its stance, citing national interest. The US also wants European countries to impose tariffs on India, but the European Union (EU) has remained silent on the matter.

During his visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to meet with Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic and President Zoran Milanovic. The visit is expected to bolster bilateral relations and explore opportunities for collaboration across various sectors, reflecting India’s commitment to strengthening ties with European Union partners.

Modi described his time in Canada as ‘productive,’ highlighting the fruitful discussions held at the G7 Summit. He also addressed the ‘Energy Security’ session, emphasizing the importance of energy diversification, technology, and infrastructure for ensuring access and affordability. He underscored India’s commitment to a sustainable future, pointing to initiatives like the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuels Alliance.

Upon arrival, PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome, symbolizing a significant moment in the India-Croatia bilateral relationship. This visit is the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Croatia, and it’s expected to open new opportunities for collaborative efforts in areas of mutual interest.

During his visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to have bilateral discussions with Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic and to meet with the President of Croatia, Zoran Milanovic.

The visit to Croatia also emphasizes India’s dedication to strengthening its connections with European Union partners.

PM Modi reflected on his time in Canada, describing it as “productive” and noting that the G7 Summit involved fruitful conversations on a range of global topics. He stated that India remains committed to promoting global peace, prosperity, and sustainability.

During the G7 Summit, PM Modi participated in the Outreach Session and addressed a session focused on ‘Energy Security: diversification, technology, and infrastructure to ensure access and affordability in a changing world.’

In his address, the Prime Minister emphasized that energy security is one of the most important challenges facing future generations. He outlined India’s commitment to inclusive growth, stating that availability, accessibility, affordability, and acceptability are the key principles that guide India’s approach to energy security.

He highlighted that despite being the world’s fastest-growing major economy, India has met its Paris commitments ahead of schedule. Stressing India’s commitment to a sustainable and green future, he highlighted initiatives such as the International Solar Alliance, Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure, Global Biofuels Alliance, Mission LiFE, and One Sun- One World- One Grid, urging international cooperation to bolster these initiatives.

The meeting provided a platform for candid and forward-looking discussions on the current state of India-Canada relations and the future trajectory. Both leaders reaffirmed the importance of the ties, grounded in shared democratic values, respect for the rule of law, and a commitment to uphold sovereignty and territorial integrity. They emphasized the need for a constructive and balanced partnership, built on mutual respect, strong people-to-people connections, and growing economic complementarities.

A significant outcome of the meeting was the agreement between India and Canada to take calibrated and constructive steps to restore stability, commencing with the prompt return of High Commissioners. Additionally, the leaders highlighted the importance of restarting senior ministerial and working-level engagements across various domains to rebuild trust and foster momentum in the relationship.

Discussions also covered potential collaboration in crucial areas like clean energy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, LNG, food security, critical minerals, higher education, mobility, and supply chain resilience. They reiterated their shared interest in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific. Further, they addressed restarting stalled negotiations on the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA), paving the way for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Officials from both sides will be tasked with furthering these discussions.

The leaders acknowledged the progress made at the G7 Summit and expressed their willingness to work together on global priorities such as climate action, inclusive growth, and sustainable development. They highlighted the deep people-to-people connections between the two countries, agreeing to leverage this bridge for mutual benefit. They agreed to maintain communication and look forward to future meetings. The positive developments follow strained relations after former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged “credible allegations” of India’s involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada in 2023. India strongly denied these allegations, calling them “absurd” and “motivated.”