Could India-Canada NSA Talks Indicate a ‘New Normal’ in Diplomatic Relations?
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Synopsis
The recent India-Canada NSA talks signify a pivotal moment in diplomatic relations, as both nations work to navigate sensitive issues through a structured, rules-based approach. This partnership aims to establish a new normal, balancing national interests with mutual respect.
Key Takeaways
- Structured engagement is key to managing sensitive issues.
- Both nations aim for a rules-based framework in their relationship.
- Incremental and reciprocal actions are prioritized.
- Focus on combating transnational organized crime and terrorism.
- Canada's legal framework allows for logical enforcement without political interference.
New Delhi, Sep 26 (NationPress) The recent dialogue between National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and his Canadian counterpart, Nathalie G. Drouin, demonstrated a meticulously crafted rules-based framework aimed at addressing the most sensitive areas of the India-Canada relationship, according to a report released on Friday.
Sanjay Kumar Verma, a former Indian diplomat and the nation’s past Ambassador to Ottawa, remarked that this situation encapsulates the essence of the new normal: gradual, reciprocal, and intentionally modest, designed to avert conflicts from compromising the broader relationship rather than resolving each individual issue.
“When Ajit Doval and Nathalie Drouin convened in New Delhi on September 18, 2025, it signified a notable milestone: the re-establishment of a structured channel to navigate differences and bolster cooperation. After two years of disconnect, both parties are not attempting to revert to the past; instead, they are cautiously forging a new normal based on reciprocity, established regulations, and operational trust,” Verma, now the Chairperson of the Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS), stated in India Narrative.
“This meeting was framed as part of an ongoing security dialogue, representing a methodical re-engagement rather than a dramatic restart. For India, the priorities were unmistakable—combating terrorism, upholding territorial integrity, protecting sovereignty, and tackling transnational organized crime. Conversely, Canada’s priorities revolved around non-interference, rule of law, sovereignty, and countering transnational repression,” he added.
The veteran diplomat highlighted that what emerged was not an overarching strategy but a pragmatic alignment, emphasizing a mutual intent to navigate the relationship through principles and mechanisms rather than political theatrics.
As per the report, the apprehension of Khalistani extremist Inderjit Singh Gosal in Ontario post-NSA meeting illustrates this budding new normal. India has long recognized Gosal as a coordinator for the Khalistani faction Sikhs for Justice (SFJ)—an organization officially banned since July 2019 under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act for inciting separatism and endorsing violence in the name of Khalistan.
“Gosal's arrest on firearms-related charges followed years of Indian grievances about reactive enforcement in Canada. Ottawa's previous stance, under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, which emphasized protections for expression and assembly, had led to perceptions of leniency. His September 2025 arrest, however, highlighted that, devoid of political interference, logical enforcement can operate within Canada’s legal framework,” the report elaborated.
“For India, this signifies that structured engagement can produce outcomes. For Canada, it validates that such actions align with its legal framework and sovereignty, rather than being a concession to external pressures,” it concluded.
Point of View
It is paramount to recognize that the recent talks between India and Canada illustrate a pragmatic approach to diplomacy. Both nations are prioritizing structured engagement over political theatrics, indicating a mature understanding of each other's concerns while navigating sensitive issues. This method reflects a commitment to long-term stability in bilateral relations, making it a noteworthy development in international diplomacy.
NationPress
26/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the NSA talks between India and Canada?
The NSA talks mark a structured re-engagement between India and Canada, aiming to address sensitive issues through a rules-based framework.
Who are the key figures involved in these talks?
The key figures are Ajit Doval, the National Security Advisor of India, and Nathalie G. Drouin, Canada's National Security Advisor.
What is the new normal in India-Canada relations?
The new normal is characterized by incremental, reciprocal engagement focused on managing sensitive issues rather than resolving every dispute.
What was the outcome of the recent NSA meeting?
The meeting resulted in a commitment to structured engagement and showcased a proactive approach to managing security concerns.
How does this affect the fight against extremism?
The collaboration aims to enhance efforts against extremism, as evidenced by the apprehension of Khalistani extremist Inderjit Singh Gosal in Canada.
