National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met his Canadian counterpart Nathalie Drouin in Ottawa. The two sides “acknowledged the progress on initiatives aimed at supporting the safety and security of their countries and citizens.”
National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met senior Canadian officials in Ottawa on February 6 and 7, with both sides agreeing on steps to deepen security cooperation, streamline information sharing and rebuild institutional links after nearly two years of diplomatic strain.
Doval met Nathalie Drouin, Deputy Clerk and National Security and Intelligence Adviser to the Canadian Prime Minister, on February 7 as part of a “regular bilateral security dialogue”, according to an official readout.
He also held talks with Gary Anandasangaree, Canada’s Minister for Public Safety, a day earlier.
SHARED WORK PLAN, LIAISON OFFICERS
The two sides “acknowledged the progress on initiatives aimed at supporting the safety and security of their countries and citizens” and agreed to a “shared workplan to guide bilateral cooperation on national security and law enforcement issues and to enable practical collaboration on respective priorities,” the statement said.
In a key step, India and Canada decided that each country would establish security and law-enforcement liaison officers. Their agencies will build on existing working relationships to “streamline bilateral communications and enable timely information sharing” on issues of mutual concern.
These include the illegal flow of drugs, particularly fentanyl precursors, and transnational organised criminal networks.
CYBER, FRAUD, IMMIGRATION ON AGENDA
Both governments also committed to formalising cooperation on cybersecurity policy and stepping up information sharing in the domain.
They agreed to continue discussions related to fraud and immigration enforcement, while remaining consistent with domestic laws and international obligations.
INDIA-CANADA TIE RESET
The visit comes amid visible attempts by both capitals to stabilise ties following the rupture triggered in 2023 after the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.
The then Justin Trudeau-led Canadian government had alleged potential Indian links to the killing, charges New Delhi rejected as “absurd”. The episode led to expulsions of diplomats, suspension of trade talks and a sharp slowdown in political engagement.
Since then, both sides have moved cautiously toward re-engagement. The appointment of high commissioners last year restored full diplomatic representation, while ministers have resumed travel.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to visit India in early March, with discussions likely across energy, critical minerals, nuclear cooperation, emerging technologies, education and culture.
ENERGY TO ANCHOR ENGAGEMENT
In a recent interview with India Today TV, Canada’s Energy and Natural Resources Minister Tim Hodgson described the partnership in expansive terms.
“Canada sees not just an opportunity, but a strategic imperative, to partner with India in shaping a secure, resilient, and mutually beneficial energy future,” he said.
