NEW DELHI/OTTAWA, Feb 8 — India and Canada are set to increase their boots-on-the-ground intelligence presence by exchanging liaison officers to combat the illegal flow of drugs and transnational crime. The agreement, reached during a visit by National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to Canada, marks a significant step in refining how the two countries manage shared security challenges.
The primary focus of this new liaison framework is to enable the “timely exchange of information” regarding the smuggling of drug precursors and the activities of organized crime groups. Following the meeting between Doval and his Canadian counterpart, Nathalie Drouin, both nations committed to a structured workplan that will serve as a roadmap for future law enforcement activities.
The MEA said that the new measure will help streamline bilateral communications and enable timely information sharing on issues of mutual concern.
Beyond physical drug trafficking, the updated security dialogue includes a commitment to formalise cybersecurity cooperation. The two sides noted the importance of sharing intelligence on cyber threats and maintaining an active dialogue on fraud and immigration enforcement. These efforts remain consistent with international obligations and domestic laws.
The meeting reviewed the current safety protocols for citizens of both nations, ensuring that the law enforcement agencies build on their established working relationships. The MEA directly said the visit was an integral part of a regular security dialogue, further reinforced by Doval’s meeting with Canadian Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree to discuss the long-term safety of the two countries.
