Revitalizing Bonds: Ajit Doval and Nathalie Drouin Unite for a Stronger, Safer India-Canada Partnership
National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met with his Canadian counterpart Nathalie Drouin in Ottawa on Saturday, leading to an agreement on a “shared work plan” aimed at enhancing cooperation on national security and law enforcement matters. This initiative is part of a broader effort to mend relations that have faced significant challenges following a diplomatic dispute linked to the 2023 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
According to reports from the Press Trust of India (PTI), the two nations have committed to a comprehensive strategy to address shared concerns, particularly focusing on transnational criminal networks. The discussions included plans for establishing security and law enforcement liaison officers in both countries, fostering better working relationships among their respective agencies.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) emphasized the importance of this collaboration, stating, “They agreed to a shared work plan to guide bilateral cooperation on national security and law enforcement issues and to enable practical collaboration on respective priorities.” The MEA’s statement underscored that this vital initiative aims to streamline bilateral communications, allowing for timely information sharing on significant issues like the illegal flow of drugs, particularly fentanyl precursors, and organized crime.
Moreover, the two sides have pledged to formalize cooperation on cybersecurity policies and to enhance information sharing on cybersecurity threats. Ongoing discussions will also tackle fraud and immigration enforcement while adhering to domestic laws and international commitments.
Doval’s visit follows a recent meeting with Canada’s Minister for Public Safety, Gary Anandasangaree, and occurs on the eve of expected preparations for Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s likely trip to India in early November.
Relations between India and Canada deteriorated sharply in 2023 when then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged a potential Indian connection to Nijjar’s killing. India firmly dismissed these allegations as “absurd,” leading to escalated diplomatic tensions. In October 2024, India had recalled its high commissioner along with five other diplomats following Canada’s attempts to link them to the Nijjar case. India responded by expelling an equal number of Canadian diplomats.
The recent political landscape in Canada has shifted significantly with the victory of Liberal Party leader Mark Carney in the April 2024 parliamentary elections, offering a glimmer of hope for a thaw in bilateral ties. Both nations have since resumed the posting of high commissioners in each other’s capitals, marking a step towards normalizing their diplomatic relations.
As international cooperation continues to evolve in addressing critical issues like cybersecurity, organized crime, and drug trafficking, the Doval-Drouin agreement signals a concerted effort by both India and Canada to navigate the complexities of their relationship while prioritizing the safety and security of their nations. The ensuing developments will be closely monitored as both sides strive for robust engagement in the wake of recent tensions.
Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/india/indiacanada-relations-khalistan-ajit-doval-nathalie-drouin-agree-on-shared-work-plan-to-bolster-security-cooperation-11770604781054.html
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Publish Date: 2026-02-09 08:22:00
