Jaishankar meets Canadian FM Anand, calls high commissioner appointments a ‘welcome step’

Jaishankar meets Canadian FM Anita Anand in New York

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand in New York to discuss ways to strengthen diplomatic relations between India and Canada.

Jaishankar described the meeting as positive and welcomed the recent appointment of High Commissioners as an important step in rebuilding ties.

Sharing details on X, he wrote, “A good meeting with FM @AnitaAnandMP of Canada this morning in New York. The appointment of High Commissioners is welcome as we rebuild ties. Discussed further steps in that regard today."

A good meeting with FM @AnitaAnandMP of Canada this morning in New York.

The appointment of High Commissioners is welcome as we rebuild ties. Discussed further steps in that regard today.

Look forward to welcoming FM Anand in India.

🇮🇳 🇨🇦 #UNGA80 pic.twitter.com/74hYE1Bju5

— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) September 29, 2025

India-Canada relations had been strained following allegations by former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau that India was linked to the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2023.

India strongly denied the accusations. The diplomatic row escalated when India’s previous High Commissioner was recalled, and several diplomats from both countries were expelled.

Relations began to improve after Liberal Party leader Mark Carney became Canada’s Prime Minister in April this year. In June, during the G7 summit in Canada, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Carney agreed to take “constructive” steps to restore stability in bilateral relations, including the early return of envoys.

In August, both countries appointed new High Commissioners, signalling their commitment to repairing ties. Jaishankar expressed hope to host Foreign Minister Anand in India in the near future.