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India-Canada Bilateral Relations

The 2023 Diplomatic Crisis and Recovery

The India-Canada relationship suffered its most severe crisis in 2023 following allegations of Indian involvement in the killing of a Canadian citizen, leading to diplomatic expulsions and a pause in trade and investment negotiations.

Key details
  • September 2023: Canadian PM Justin Trudeau alleged "credible allegations" of Indian government involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil in June 2023.
  • Nijjar was the chief of the Khalistan Tiger Force (KTF) and was designated a terrorist by India.
  • Both countries expelled senior diplomats in tit-for-tat actions.
  • FTA/CEPA negotiations, which had completed nine rounds by July 2023, were paused by Canada.
  • Bilateral trade remained relatively stable at approximately $9.36 billion in 2023 (Indian exports: $5.56 billion, Canadian exports: $3.80 billion).
  • Relations began thawing under new PM Mark Carney (took office January 2025), who adopted a more pragmatic approach to India.
  • November 2025: Modi-Carney agreement to formally launch CEPA negotiations.
In the news

Tracked since February 18, 2026 · last seen May 29, 2026 · updates as the daily brief publishes

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