India and Canada have taken a careful but important step to mend their troubled relationship, with National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval's trip to Ottawa last week being one of the most significant high-level security discussions between the two nations in recent times. This NSA engagement highlights a careful return to communication after a long time of tension due to a diplomatic dispute over the death of a Khalistani separatist in 2023. During his visit from February 6 to 7, Doval met with Canada's Deputy Clerk and the National Security and Intelligence Adviser to the Prime Minister, Nathalie Drouin, along with Minister of Public Safety Gary Anandasangaree. Both parties described their talks as part of their routine security discussions, but the timing and tone indicate a focused effort to stabilize relations that faced several challenges during former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's time in office. The visit represented a turning point in their relationship and clearly indicated that extremist groups, including those linked to Khalistani networks, are not supported by the Mark Carney government.

Following the meeting, India's statement mentioned that both New Delhi and Ottawa recognized advances on initiatives aimed at enhancing the safety and security of their nations and peoples. They agreed on a joint work plan to direct cooperation on national security and law enforcement, focusing on enabling practical and outcome-driven collaborations. Canada's summary supported this, emphasizing agreement on specific actions rather than general political gestures. One of the most significant results from the meetings was the agreement to create security and law-enforcement liaison officers in each other's territories. Officials noted that this would help improve communication between the two nations and allow for timely sharing of information on issues of mutual concern. These matters include international organized crime, the illegal movement of drugs—especially fentanyl precursors—and other cross-border security problems that have increasingly worried both governments.

The talks also included working together on cybersecurity rules and sharing information about cyber dangers, along with ongoing discussions about handling fraud and immigration. Both parties emphasized that this collaboration would follow local laws and global responsibilities, hinting at awareness of previous conflicts and the importance of having structures in place as relationships improve.

Although the wording of the statements was careful, the overall diplomatic setting adds more significance to the visit. Doval's discussions are seen in New Delhi and Ottawa as a crucial step before Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's expected trip to India next month. If this visit happens, it would be the first time a prime minister has engaged at this level since relations fell to a low point in many years. The relationship between India and Canada had become strained due to various disagreements over political statements, security issues, and how sensitive topics were handled during former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's time in office. Relations deteriorated sharply after Trudeau's claims in 2023 that there might be a connection between India and the murder of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India responded by calling Trudeau's claims "absurd. "

This time saw mutual blame, reduced engagement, and a significant breakdown of trust. Given this context, the renewal of organized security discussions is being seen as a positive indication that both governments want to move beyond the difficulties and regain some stability that once characterized their relationship.

Officials from both sides seem eager to show a practical approach rather than aiming for a grand reconciliation. The focus on cooperating in law enforcement, communication channels, and areas like cybersecurity shows an effort to build trust gradually. Analysts point out that this type of practical cooperation can lead to broader political dialogue if it continues over time.

Doval's visit to Ottawa may not solve all existing issues, but it shows a desire to engage again meaningfully. With a potential visit from the prime minister approaching, these meetings imply that India and Canada are carefully working to bring their relationship back to normal—slowly—after years of difficulties, aiming to return to the more stable and predictable ties that once characterized their interactions.