19th Century Developments
In 1858, Queen Victoria's proclamation that the people of India would enjoy equal privileges alongside their white counterparts across the British Empire heralded a significant but complex chapter in colonial relations. At that time, both Canada and India were governed by the British Crown, leading to the migration of ex-army personnel from the British Indian Army to Canada in search of a fresh start. They encountered a different reality than what they had anticipated, characterized by deep-seated racism and systemic discrimination. Many of these immigrants found their way to Western Canada, a region that was largely underpopulated and held promise for new beginnings.
Migration and Settlement
Once in Canada, many former soldiers leveraged their military background, taking roles as law enforcement officers which provided them with a semblance of stability and respect. Others sought work in the burgeoning lumber industry, engaging in forest clearing, operating lumber mills, and contributing essential labor to the economy of the time. Despite their contributions, race relations remained tense; white Canadians often displayed prejudices that limited opportunities for these immigrants. The socioeconomic structures of the era systematically privileged white individuals, creating barriers that hindered integration and acceptance.
Enduring Dynamics of Race Relations
The racialized dynamics and ethnic gatekeeping practices that took root in the 19th century have had lasting impacts. Even today, implicit and explicit forms of discrimination resonate within Canadian society, shaping the experiences of racialized communities. This historical context frames the relationship between Canada and India, revealing the underlying tensions that often complicate diplomatic and cultural exchanges. While Canada promotes itself as a multicultural nation where diversity is celebrated, the echoes of its colonial past continue to influence the interactions between different ethnic groups and the broader societal structures.
In essence, the legacy of 19th-century migrations and the complexities of race relations profoundly inform the present-day connection between Canada and India. As Canada strives to forge a global identity rooted in inclusivity, understanding these historical dynamics is essential for addressing existing disparities and fostering a more equitable future for all citizens.
Enhanced Relations in the Mid-20th Century
The relationship between Canada and India flourished in the mid-20th century, particularly during the 1940s and 1960s. This was largely due to the personal rapport that developed between Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and Canadian Prime Ministers Louis St. Laurent and Lester B. Pearson. Both nations found common ground at the United Nations and within the Commonwealth, collaborating on various global challenges such as the Korean War armistice and the Suez Crisis. Canada's commitment to aiding India was solidified when its aid programme was initiated in 1951, subsequently expanding under the framework of the Colombo Plan. Over the decades, India emerged as one of the largest recipients of Canadian bilateral aid, with contributions exceeding CAD 3.8 billion. Notably, in the 1960s, Canada played a significant role in supporting the Kundah hydro-electric power house project, exemplifying the nation's commitment to sustainable development in India.
Setbacks Post-Nuclear Development
However, the relationship took a significant downturn following India's Smiling Buddha nuclear test in May 1974. In response to concerns that Canada-supplied nuclear technology facilitated India's atomic development, the Canadian government severed bilateral nuclear cooperation with both India and Pakistan in 1976. This escalation in nuclear capabilities created an atmosphere of mistrust, prompting Canada to reserve nuclear cooperation exclusively for countries that adhered to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) and the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT). India and Pakistan's continued refusal to sign these treaties, citing sovereign rights, further strained ties. In 1997, India's Foreign Minister I.K. Gujral reiterated the nation's stance against the NPT, asserting that the treaty's current form was insufficient for comprehensive disarmament. Consequently, Canada maintained its position of non-cooperation with India until significant progress was made in 2010 with the Nuclear Cooperation Agreement, marking a pivotal moment in revitalizing relations and culminating in a 2015 contract for uranium supply.
Historical Significance of State Visits
The significance of state visits cannot be understated in the context of Canada-India relations. Indira Gandhi made history as the second Indian Prime Minister to address a joint session of the Canadian Parliament on June 19, 1973, following Nehru's inaugural visit in 1949. The 1985 bombing of Air India Flight 182, attributed to Sikh separatists, had profound implications for bilateral ties, underscoring the necessity for ongoing discourse about counter-terrorism. This tragic event subsequently led to the establishment of the Canada-India Strategic Dialogue, facilitating annual discussions on security cooperation, including a dedicated Working Group on Counter-Terrorism.
Economic Liberalization and Renewed Dialogues
The 1990s marked another transformative period in Canada-India relations, primarily due to India's significant economic liberalization. Canadian business interests were piqued, and in January 1996, Prime Minister Jean Chrétien led a diplomatic mission that included key cabinet ministers and a substantial business delegation to India. This visit initiated a positive feedback loop, leading to reciprocal visits, most notably by External Affairs Minister Inder Kumar Gujral in September 1996, and Foreign Minister Lloyd Axworthy's visit to India in early 1997. Underlining the importance of ongoing dialogue, the Canada-India Working Group on Counter-Terrorism was formally inaugurated in 1997. Following these governmental engagements, significant steps were taken to promote bilateral relations, evident in former Governor General Roméo LeBlanc's state visit to India in March 1998 and Prime Minister Stephen Harper's trip in November 2009.
Strengthening Ties in Recent Years
The Canada-India partnership has continued to evolve, particularly with the establishment of the Canada India Foundation in 2007, which advocates for stronger bilateral ties. Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh's visit to Canada during the G20 Summit in June 2010 reflects the enduring importance of diplomatic relationships and mutual cooperation in addressing global challenges, cementing the future trajectory of Canada-India relations. Overall, the two nations have navigated complex historical issues while working towards a collaborative future, characterized by shared interests and mutual respect.
Canada-India relations have evolved significantly in the 21st century, highlighted by various initiatives and events aimed at enhancing cultural and economic ties. One pivotal moment occurred in 2011, which was designated as the "Year of India in Canada." This initiative was launched as a collaborative effort between the two governments, culminating in a series of events that celebrated Indian culture and the significant contribution of the Indian diaspora in Canada. A notable event was the Pravasi Bhartiya Divas, co-hosted by the Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce and the Government of India in June 2011, which attracted over 1,000 delegates from various sectors, such as government, business, medicine, and philanthropy, fostering discussions about mutual collaboration and development. Additionally, this celebration of Indian culture was complemented by the International Indian Film Academy Awards, which took place in Toronto later that month, showcasing the Indian film industry's influence and appeal in Canada.
However, the relationship has faced notable challenges in recent years, particularly under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's government. His state visit to India in February 2018 generated significant controversy due to the invitation of Jaspal Atwal, a figure with a criminal past linked to violence against Indian politicians. This incident drew criticism domestically and internationally, highlighting the sensitive nature of the historical and political relationship between Canada and India. Furthermore, in 2019, Canada's Public Safety Department labeled Sikh extremism as one of the top five terror threats. This categorization sparked outrage among Sikh MPs and community leaders, who felt it misrepresented their faith and culture. The government later revised its report, omitting specific references to Sikh extremism, which was seen as a capitulation to the concerns of community members who argued that such language could exacerbate prejudice against Sikhs in Canada. Omer Aziz, a former foreign policy advisor in Trudeau's government, indicated that the Sikh voting bloc played a critical role in influencing Canadian policy regarding India, particularly in relation to calls for action against Khalistan-separatist financing.
Tensions escalated more dramatically in late 2020 when Prime Minister Trudeau publicly expressed his concerns regarding the Indian government's handling of farmer protests. He framed this issue as a matter of defending the rights of peaceful demonstrators and highlighted the importance of dialogue within the context of democratic governance. In response, India’s Ministry of External Affairs criticized Trudeau's remarks as an "unacceptable interference in our internal affairs," underscoring the sensitivities surrounding national sovereignty and the implications of international scrutiny on domestic issues. These events reflect a complex interplay of cultural, political, and social factors that continue to shape Canada-India relations in the contemporary era, illustrating both opportunities for cooperation as well as challenges that arise from differing perspectives on governance and community dynamics.
2023 Diplomatic Row
The diplomatic row between Canada and India in 2023 highlights the fragile nature of international relations, especially when historical grievances intersect with ongoing political movements. The crisis stemmed from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's shocking claims regarding India's involvement in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent Sikh activist, in June 2023. This assertion brought to the forefront the longstanding tensions regarding the Khalistan movement, which seeks to create an independent Sikh state in India. The allegations not only sparked public outrage but also led to a rapid deterioration of diplomatic ties, underscoring the complexities and sensitivities involved in issues relating to national identity and territorial integrity.
The Khalistan movement has been a contentious issue in India-Canada relations for decades, particularly as certain factions within the Canadian Sikh community have actively supported it. This support has often been perceived by India as problematic, leading to accusations that foreign countries, including Canada, are harboring and encouraging separatist elements that threaten India's sovereignty. Consequently, the Canadian government has faced criticism for not doing enough to curb the activities of pro-Khalistani groups, which has intensified the strain between the two nations. The fallout from Nijjar's assassination further complicated matters, raising questions about security, foreign influence, and the limits of a country's right to protect its national interests abroad.
In response to Trudeau’s allegations, India's government vehemently denied any involvement in the assassination, labeling them as "absurd" and emphasizing the importance of addressing issues related to terrorism and extremism. This public denouncement only escalated tensions, leading both countries to expel each other's diplomats, thus diminishing diplomatic channels for dialogue. The situation not only jeopardizes bilateral trade and cooperation but also poses challenges for the substantial Sikh diaspora in Canada, which finds itself caught in the crosshairs of these geopolitical tensions.
As the diplomatic row continues to unfold, it serves as a reminder of the delicate balance that must be maintained in international relations, particularly where issues of identity and national integrity are concerned. The ongoing discourse around this crisis will undoubtedly shape the future of Canada-India relations and may compel both nations to engage in critical reflection regarding their diplomatic strategies and domestic policies related to minority groups and expatriate communities.
Background
Canada has established itself as home to the largest Sikh population outside of India, with approximately 770,000 Sikhs residing in the country. This community accounts for nearly 2 percent of Canada’s total population and plays a significant role in both the cultural and social fabric of Canadian society. The presence of Sikh individuals in Canada has contributed to vibrant cultural exchanges and established important connections between Canada and India. However, as the Sikh community has grown, so too have tensions related to the Khalistan movement, which advocates for a separate Sikh homeland in India.
The diplomatic relationship between Canada and India has faced challenges in recent months, particularly surrounding concerns expressed by the Indian government regarding Sikh protests occurring in Canada. In March 2023, Canada's High Commissioner was summoned by Indian officials to discuss these concerns, particularly in light of incidents that were perceived as security breaches of India's diplomatic missions in Canada. This summoning signaled a downturn in diplomatic relations as India sought to communicate its apprehensions regarding the activities of Sikh activists abroad.
The situation escalated further during the 2023 G20 summit held in New Delhi. In September, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his apprehensions directly to Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau about the growing Khalistani protests in Canada. Trudeau, on his part, brought up serious allegations regarding Indian governmental involvement in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen. These allegations have fueled existing tensions and led to a standstill in ongoing trade negotiations between the two nations. Canada subsequently announced the postponement of a planned October trade mission to India, indicating a chilling effect on bilateral initiatives.
During his address to the House of Commons on September 18, 2023, Prime Minister Trudeau revealed that Canadian security agencies were actively investigating credible allegations linking Indian government agents to Nijjar's killing. He emphasized the gravity of the accusations, stating that any foreign government’s involvement in the death of a Canadian citizen on Canadian soil constitutes an unacceptable violation of the nation’s sovereignty. Trudeau called on the Indian government to cooperate with Canadian authorities to ensure a thorough investigation.
In response to these serious accusations, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs firmly rejected Trudeau's claims, labeling them "absurd and motivated." They reiterated that previous accusations made by Trudeau during their discussions had been categorically denied. Furthermore, India emphasized that such allegations appear to distract attention from Khalistani extremists operating within Canada, whom they accuse of undermining India's sovereignty. The Indian government has urged Canada to take decisive and effective legal action against these anti-India entities, reflecting long-standing concerns over the activities of certain elements within the Canadian Sikh community that threaten Indian national interests. The unfolding events highlight the complexities of Canada-India relations, intertwined with issues of national security, community representation, and bilateral trade.
Diplomatic Tensions
In September 2023, a significant diplomatic incident arose between Canada and India following the expulsion of a senior Indian diplomat, Pavan Kumar Rai, deemed to be associated with the Indian intelligence agency RAW. Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly characterized the expulsion as a firm stance against foreign interference, implying that any involvement from the Indian government in domestic Canadian affairs, particularly the unhindered activities of certain groups, would be an unacceptable violation of national sovereignty. This escalation was precipitated by allegations of Indian involvement in the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a prominent advocate of the Khalistan movement. These accusations included the assertion that the Indian government might be using violent means against diasporic elements perceived as threats to its territorial integrity.
The situation further escalated when India reacted by expelling a Canadian diplomat and issuing warnings to its citizens in Canada, highlighting concerns over alleged hostile activities linked to Canadian diplomats. Concurrently, both nations adjusted their travel advisories, prompting advisories that cautioned citizens to remain vigilant in the respective countries due to heightened tensions and potential anti-national sentiments. The interplay of these diplomatic maneuvers illustrated a fast-degrading state of affairs, marked by mutual suspicions and retaliatory actions.
Growing Concerns and Travel Alerts
The diplomatic brawl extended to travel warnings, with Canada advising its citizens in India to exercise caution amidst growing anti-Canadian sentiment, while India cautioned its nationals in Canada about escalating anti-India activities and hate crimes. The speed at which these advisories were issued underscored the gravity of the political climate between the two nations. Moreover, as Canada temporarily closed several consulates in India and concentrated its diplomatic efforts in New Delhi, this retraction of diplomatic services raised concerns about delays in immigration processing, directly impacting individuals reliant on Canadian immigration services.
As the situation intensified, calls for protests and organized anti-Canada sentiments found their way into social media and community gatherings. Canadian officials reported instances of intimidation targeting Canadians abroad, while Indian authorities pursued measures against individuals associated with pro-Khalistan organizations, dubbing Canada a haven for extremists and organized crime. The narrative perpetuated by both sides illustrated a broader geopolitical tension, reflecting enduring historical grievances, current affiliations, and the international implications of the Sikh separatist movement which remains a highly contentious issue in Indian politics.
International Implications and Future Relations
The fallout from the allegations linking the Indian government to Nijjar's death prompted discussions at global forums, such as the United Nations Human Rights Council, where India sought to draw attention to perceived shortcomings in Canadian governance related to freedom of expression and counter-extremism. Notably, these exchanges took place amid ongoing discussions about the necessity for stronger international collaboration in combating terrorism and organized crime, particularly amidst reports that some intelligence gathered by Canada regarding Nijjar’s assassination was allegedly sourced from U.S. intelligence agencies.
As the diplomatic saga unfolded, India's strategic interests came to the forefront when Prime Minister Trudeau and other Canadian officials began voicing their concerns, aiming to balance their criticism of the Indian government's alleged actions with a desire for withstanding the importance of maintaining ties with a significant global power. Prime Minister Trudeau's remarks about potential links between Indian agencies and Nijjar's killing reflected growing internal discourse about national security, showcasing the nuanced position Canada finds itself in as it navigates the complexities of its relationship with India against a backdrop of international lobbying and geopolitical maneuvers.
To compound these tensions, an alleged threat emerging from the separatist circles targeted individuals traveling via Air India during a prominent event, demonstrating the ongoing volatility impacting transnational relationships. The surveillance and monitoring by respective governments, not only indicated the growing paranoia surrounding the activities of expatriate groups, but also suggested a continuous cycle of surveillance, suspicion, and allegation that could derail any progress made in dialogue between Canada and India moving forward.
Reactions from various countries to the tensions in Canada-India relations highlight the complexities and sensitivities surrounding diplomatic interactions in response to serious allegations. Australia, through its Foreign Minister Penny Wong, voiced deep concern over the unfolding situation, emphasizing respect for national sovereignty and adherence to the rule of law. This comment underscores Australia’s commitment to upholding these principles while maintaining its diplomatic relations globally, demonstrating a nuanced approach to international affairs.
The United Kingdom also weighed in on the matter, expressing disagreement with the Indian government's recent decisions that led to the departure of several Canadian diplomats. This statement from the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office emphasizes the need for open dialogue, particularly regarding the ongoing investigation into the death of Hardeep Singh Nijjar. The UK's stance reflects its broader foreign policy strategy, which often prioritizes mutual cooperation and communication among nations, especially in situations that could escalate tensions.
The response from the United States further indicates a collective concern among Western allies regarding India's actions. Spokesperson Matthew Miller urged India to reconsider its stance on reducing Canada’s diplomatic presence and to engage cooperatively with Canadian authorities. This insistence on collaboration highlights the strategic interests of the U.S. in maintaining stability and a functioning diplomatic landscape in South Asia. The implications of such diplomatic tensions are significant, as they not only affect bilateral relations but also influence regional dynamics.
New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs echoed these sentiments by calling for increased diplomacy at a time of heightened tensions. Their reference to the 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations serves as a reminder of the legal frameworks that govern international diplomacy and the responsibilities nations have to ensure the safety and rights of diplomatic personnel. This appeal underscores the global expectation for states to navigate conflicts through diplomatic means rather than resorting to retaliatory measures that could further deteriorate relations.
Expert analysis by Michael Kugelman from the Wilson Center paints a grim picture of the current state of Canada-India relations. By stating that the situation may represent the lowest point in their diplomatic history, Kugelman suggests that trust has been severely undermined. The pathway to restoring normalcy may be fraught with challenges and require significant diplomatic effort, signaling a potentially prolonged period of strained relations between the two nations. The overarching theme from these various reactions showcases a shared desire among Western allies for constructive dialogue and resolution, even as tensions mount.
Trade relationship
The trade relationship between India and Canada has witnessed remarkable growth over the years, reflecting a deepening of economic ties between the two countries. In the fiscal year 2022-23, bilateral trade reached an impressive $8.16 billion. This growth is characterized by India's prominent exports of pharmaceuticals and jewelry, which cater to both domestic and international markets. Conversely, Canada's main exports to India include agricultural products such as pulses, which satisfy increasing consumer demand, and timber used in construction and manufacturing industries.
Looking back, in 2009, trade figures demonstrated only modest levels of exchange, with Canadian exports to India at C$2.1 billion and imports totaling C$2.0 billion. This created a slight trade surplus for Canada of C$100 million. To further strengthen ties, India designated 2012 as the "Year of India in Canada," a strategic initiative aimed at enhancing business, cultural, and political relations. This recognition helped cement ongoing cooperation in various sectors including education, technology, and energy.
Despite the warm bilateral relationship, the trade volume between Canada and India still remains below its potential. As of 2014, India represented less than 1% of Canada's total export and import markets, which is indicative of the room for growth. In that year, bilateral trade amounted to C$5.77 billion, starkly contrasting with the more than C$56 billion annual trade between Canada and China. However, despite these disparities, it is noteworthy that trade between India and Canada has been steadily increasing over the past five years.
To further enhance their economic collaboration, Canada and India are engaged in negotiations for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This agreement aims to reduce trade barriers, increase market access, and enhance investment opportunities between the two nations. As of March 2015, the two countries had completed their ninth round of negotiations in New Delhi, indicating a serious commitment to fostering a more robust economic relationship. This ongoing dialogue presents a pathway to unlocking the full potential of trade between them, with expectations that both nations will benefit significantly from a strengthened trade partnership.
Diplomatic Representation
As members of the Commonwealth of Nations, Canada and India foster their diplomatic relations by designating high commissioners instead of ambassadors. This arrangement symbolizes their shared history, cultural ties, and commitment to working collaboratively on various global issues.
Canada maintains a high commission in New Delhi, the political capital of India, which serves as the primary venue for diplomatic activities and bilateral engagements. In addition to the high commission, Canada has established consulates-general in Bangalore, Chandigarh, and Mumbai. These consulates play a vital role in promoting trade, cultural exchanges, and supporting Canadian citizens in India. Each consulate caters to specific regions, allowing for a more localized diplomatic approach that addresses the diverse needs of both Canadian and Indian populations.
Conversely, India operates a high commission in Ottawa, the capital of Canada, to facilitate political and economic dialogues between the two nations. Alongside the high commission, India has consulates-general in Toronto and Vancouver. These consulates are significant hubs for managing consular services and enhancing India-Canada ties in key sectors such as technology, education, and tourism. The presence of these diplomatic missions underscores the importance both countries place on strengthening their relationship in various fields.
Overall, the diplomatic missions of Canada and India symbolize their commitment to collaboration and mutual respect, supported by a historical connection through the Commonwealth. Through these channels, both nations can efficiently engage in discussions and initiatives that are beneficial to their respective citizens and the international community at large.
Air Connectivity
Air connectivity between Canada and India has seen significant developments in recent years. Major airlines are enhancing their operational routes to facilitate easier travel between the two nations. Air Canada is currently at the forefront, offering non-stop flights to key Indian cities including Delhi and Mumbai from Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. This connectivity allows for both business and tourism travel, strengthening ties between the two countries. In an important move for bilateral air traffic, Air India reintroduced its non-stop services from Delhi to Toronto in September 2019, followed by a new route from Delhi to Vancouver in October 2020.
The interest from other airlines is also notable, with Indian carrier Vistara emerging as a potential player wanting to establish a non-stop route from Delhi to Toronto as its inaugural destination in North America. Similarly, Canadian airline WestJet has recognized India as a key market for its future expansion, planning to utilize the Boeing 787 Dreamliner to meet this demand. In May 2022, the discussions between India's Union Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia and Canadian Transport Minister Omar Alghabra on an open skies policy underscores the commitment from both governments to enhance their air travel agreements, allowing for unlimited flight services. This flexibility could result in an increase in passenger traffic, benefitting tourism, business, and cultural exchange between Canada and India.
Trade Dynamics
The trade relationship between Canada and India is characterized by a diverse exchange of goods. Canadian imports from India predominantly comprise mechanical appliances, mineral fuels, and precious stones. In particular, boilers and mechanical appliances account for approximately 8.43% of total imports, showcasing India's manufacturing capabilities. Moreover, India's role as a supplier of organic chemicals and pharmaceuticals further emphasizes the trade synergy between the two nations.
On the export side, Canadian goods to India are significantly composed of edible vegetables, precious stones, and fertilizers, with edible vegetables from Canada representing 36.06% of total exports. The import-export statistics highlight the interdependent economic relationship, with Canadian exports to India reflecting a rate of 0.88% of total exports, while imports from India stand at 0.74% of total imports. This dynamic illustrates not only the economic engagement but also the potential for future growth in trade as both nations explore opportunities for reciprocal investments and increased market access. The 2022 discussions for open skies are not only expected to enhance air travel but also to bolster trade, enabling easier transport of goods and a broader exchange of resources between Canada and India.