India and Canada return ambassadors as Carney and Modi seek to move on from assassination dispute
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Canada, India Agree to Re-Appoint High Commissioners
Above: (L/R) Mark Carney greets Narendra Modi during the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, on June 17, 2025. Image copyright: Geoff Robins/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-government narrative
This diplomatic breakthrough is a pragmatic reset that prioritizes economic interests and citizen services over political posturing. Carney's approach shows mature leadership by focusing on shared democratic values and practical cooperation rather than inflammatory accusations. Meanwhile, Modi's firm diplomacy has paid off, with both countries now closer to rebuilding trust and addressing shared global challenges.
Government-critical narrative
Canada can't simply sweep serious allegations of transnational repression under the rug for economic convenience. The evidence of India's involvement in targeting Canadian citizens on Canadian soil is a fundamental violation of sovereignty that requires accountability, not diplomatic normalization.
Narrative C
By offering political space and tolerance to secessionist rhetoric, Canada undermined India's sovereignty and security concerns. Canada's continued pandering to Khalistani extremists and ongoing surveillance of Indian diplomatic personnel will make it challenging to rebuild its once-strong ties with India.