New Delhi: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held a telephonic conversation with newly-appointed Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, marking the first high-level engagement between the two nations since the recent shift in Canada’s leadership. The discussion focused on revitalizing India-Canada relations, with a special emphasis on economic cooperation and shared strategic priorities.
Anand, who took charge as Canada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs earlier this month, shared the update on X (formerly Twitter), expressing appreciation for the dialogue. “Thank you Minister @DrSJaishankar for the productive discussion today on strengthening Canada-India ties, deepening our economic cooperation, and advancing shared priorities. I look forward to continuing our work together,” she posted.
Jaishankar confirmed the call and responded warmly on his official account, saying:
“Appreciate the telecon with FM @AnitaAnandMP of Canada. Discussed the prospects of India-Canada ties. Wished her a very successful tenure.”
The renewed dialogue comes as Canada’s new Prime Minister, Mark Carney, signals a desire to reset relations with India after a period of diplomatic strain under the previous Trudeau government. Carney has prioritized economic engagement with India and called the relationship “incredibly important” during his election campaign. Canada is also preparing to host the upcoming G7 Summit from June 15–17.
Anita Anand, 58, is a prominent Indian-origin leader in Canada and was previously Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. She has held several high-profile positions, including Defence Minister, and now succeeds Mélanie Joly, who has moved to the Ministry of Industry.
India-Canada ties had sharply deteriorated in 2023 after then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused New Delhi of involvement in the killing of pro-Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India strongly rejected the claims as “absurd” and “politically motivated.” The diplomatic fallout included the expulsion of diplomats, suspension of trade talks, and a freeze on bilateral visits.
With Carney now at the helm, there are renewed hopes of stabilizing the relationship. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had earlier congratulated Carney on his election win and expressed optimism about unlocking new opportunities and strengthening people-to-people ties between the two nations.
As both sides work toward mending their relationship, the recent conversation between Jaishankar and Anand is being seen as a positive step forward in rebuilding trust and advancing shared goals
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