Chandigarh, Feb 27: Prime Minister Mark Carney has commenced an official visit to India that prioritizes high-level trade over cultural tourism. Unlike previous delegations, the Prime Minister will skip the Punjab region, a decision viewed by analysts as a way to navigate the sensitive political landscape between the two countries.
The visit is widely seen as an attempt to mend a partnership that soured in recent years. Prime Minister Carney is focusing his efforts on a “reset” of the fractious relationship, seeking new avenues for cooperation in the automotive and energy sectors. This pragmatic shift follows years of tension regarding the activities of certain diaspora groups, which the Indian government had previously raised as a point of concern.
Foreign Minister Anita Anand stated that the government’s foreign policy now reflects a sophisticated reordering of international trade. She affirmed that Canada is working closely with Indian counterparts on matters involving digital surveillance and transnational security.
“He’s not going to do a Bhangra dance over there,” asserted University of Toronto professor Partha Mohanram, who noted that Carney’s approach is defined by a more traditional diplomatic weight.
While the World Sikh Organisation of Canada declared that the government has failed to implement sufficient safeguards for the diaspora, the administration remains focused on its broader geopolitical goals. After concluding his meetings in India, Carney is scheduled to address the Australian parliament and later meet with Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to finalize critical mineral agreements.
