Trudeau gone, Friendship on

Canada sits top of the list of favourite countries chosen by youngsters in Kerala for higher studies. There is already a sizeable population of Malayalees in the northern American country. The high living costs in Canada did little to deter youngsters in Kerala from crossing the Atlantic. The practice is ongoing, with more students waiting in line to travel to the country with big dreams. On one side, Indians form a sizable diaspora in Canada, while, incongruously, the diplomatic relationship between the two nations has seen better days. Immigration from India to Canada has been going on for decades. Indian citizens mainly migrated to Canada from the states of Punjab and Gujarat. Their descendants have reached high levels of education and business and have become part of a wealthy society.

With many accepting Canadian citizenship, these communities, especially Sikhs, are highly influential in Canadian politics. The India-Canada relationship went south after the birth of the radical extremist group Khalistanis. Canada did little to thwart their threat and provided a haven for the radicals to carry out their plot. Amid threats against India looming large, some prominent Khalistan terrorists were shot dead by unknown people in major cities in Canada. The then-leadership of Canada, without any evidence, accused India of being the brain behind the assassinations.

This led to a significant breakdown in diplomatic relations between the two countries. What followed was visa restrictions and the loss of opportunities for many students and job seekers from Kerala and others in India.

The media reports that the meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney during the G-7 summit is a sign of détente between the two countries. In this meeting, it was agreed to review the action of recalling the High Commissioners of both countries in October 2024. The visa process, which was slow due to the absence of High Commissioners, will now be expedited. Visa restrictions imposed on citizens and businessmen will also be lifted. Justin Trudeau’s exit from Canadian politics paved the way for tensions to ameliorate between the two nations.

Following the Modi-Carney meeting, it was agreed to resume trade talks between the two countries. A Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement has also been agreed upon. Official-level talks for related measures will begin soon. With a haughty US under Trump rolling out the red carpet for Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir, it remains pertinent for India to mend its relationship with the America. Canada is a good start.