Diplomatic Ties Rekindle: Canada and India Move Forward

President Droupadi Murmu accepted the credentials from the new Canadian High Commissioner, Christopher Cooter, indicating a step forward in mending diplomatic relations between India and Canada. This appointment comes nearly a year after bilateral ties were strained following allegations connecting India to the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Last October, the diplomatic rift widened when India recalled its high commissioner and expelled several Canadian diplomats after Ottawa linked them to the Nijjar case. Efforts to repair the relationship began in June, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian counterpart Mark Carney agreeing to take 'constructive' actions, including reinstating ambassadors.

By August, both countries had named new envoys to each other's capitals, signaling an intent to restore stability. Dinesh K Patnaik was appointed as India's high commissioner to Ottawa, while Canada selected Cooter for New Delhi. Formal presentations of credentials took place in the following months, marking a significant stride in diplomatic re-engagement.