Prime Minister Narendra Modi has extended warm congratulations to Mark J. Carney on his election as the new Prime Minister of Canada, signaling a potential reset in the strained diplomatic ties between the two nations following the departure of Justin Trudeau.
In a message posted on X (formerly Twitter), PM Modi wrote:
“Congratulations Mark J. Carney on your election as the Prime Minister of Canada and to the Liberal Party on their victory. India and Canada are bound by shared democratic values, a steadfast commitment to the rule of law, and vibrant people-to-people ties. I look forward to working with you to strengthen our partnership and unlock greater opportunities for our people.”
Mark Carney officially assumed office following the Liberal Party’s electoral victory in Canada’s 45th federal election. Carney, a former central banker with no prior elected experience, took over leadership of the Liberal Party earlier this year after Trudeau’s resignation. Canadian media outlet CTV News projected a Liberal minority government, allowing Carney to retain power.
His leadership comes at a time when bilateral relations between India and Canada are in need of repair. The two countries experienced significant diplomatic turbulence in late 2023 after then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged “potential” involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. India firmly rejected the accusations, calling them “absurd and politically motivated.”
Carney has not publicly addressed the Nijjar controversy since taking office, but his government is expected to approach the issue with a different tone, potentially paving the way for improved diplomatic engagement between Ottawa and New Delhi.
India and Canada maintain deep economic, educational, and cultural ties, supported by a large and vibrant Indo-Canadian diaspora. Both countries have also expressed interest in further cooperation on trade, climate action, and global security.
With the change in Canada’s leadership, both sides appear poised for a diplomatic reset. Modi’s outreach is seen as an important signal of India’s willingness to engage in renewed partnership under Carney’s leadership.