NEW DELHI — February 27, 2026
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney will arrive in India on Friday for his first official visit, following an invitation from Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The visit, scheduled from February 27 to March 2, is aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and exploring new avenues of cooperation.
Delegation-level talks between the two leaders are set for March 2 in New Delhi, with discussions expected to focus on trade, security, energy, technology, artificial intelligence, talent exchange, culture, and defense collaboration.
Mumbai Engagements Before Delhi Talks
According to India’s Ministry of External Affairs, Carney will land in Mumbai on February 27 and participate in business engagements over the next two days. He is expected to interact with CEOs, industry leaders, financial experts, innovators, and academics.
He will travel to New Delhi on March 1 ahead of formal bilateral discussions.
Ottawa’s outreach is being viewed as part of a more pragmatic foreign policy approach and an effort to deepen economic engagement with India, the world’s most populous country.
Diplomatic Reset After Strained Relations
Relations between the two nations deteriorated sharply after the June 2023 killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a gurdwara in British Columbia during the tenure of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The episode triggered diplomatic expulsions and a prolonged standoff.
In 2024, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police alleged potential links between Indian government agents and certain violent incidents in Canada. However, recent statements from Canadian officials indicate that earlier concerns about ongoing foreign interference tied to India are no longer active.
A senior Canadian official, quoted in domestic media, said there is currently no evidence suggesting India’s involvement in violent crimes in Canada. The official added that if such activities were ongoing, the prime minister’s visit would not be proceeding.
Focus on Trade and Security Cooperation
Former Canadian National Security Adviser Jody Thomas said security concerns remain an important issue but can be addressed alongside efforts to expand trade and people-to-people ties.
International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu stated that both countries have agreed to appoint liaison officers to enhance cooperation in criminal investigations.
India’s National Security Adviser Ajit Doval recently visited Ottawa, where discussions between national security officials were described as a constructive step toward rebuilding trust and strengthening bilateral security cooperation.
Indo-Pacific Tour Continues
Carney’s India visit forms part of a broader Indo-Pacific outreach. After India, he is scheduled to travel to Canberra and Sydney in Australia, followed by Tokyo, Japan.
The multi-country tour underscores Canada’s efforts to reinforce strategic and economic partnerships across the Indo-Pacific region while recalibrating its relationship with India.
