India-Canada NSAs discuss steps to counter extremism

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met his Canadian counterpart Nathalie G. Drouin on September 18 in New Delhi, as the two countries seek to thaw ties after a year of strained relations.

The NSAs explored ways to advance the bilateral relationship, with a focus on counterterrorism, tackling transnational organised crime, and expanding intelligence-sharing efforts. They agreed to strengthen security cooperation and existing engagement mechanisms.

On Friday, senior diplomats of both sides also held talks to revive dialogue mechanisms that had stalled amid tensions.

India's ties with Canada, under former prime minister Justin Trudeau, hit a low as Ottawa was accused of shielding Khalistani extremists and, in turn, blamed New Delhi for targeting Canadian citizens. Both countries had withdrawn their envoys.

Relations began to reset after Canada's new prime minister initiated outreach to New Delhi. The two prime ministers met earlier this year during the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta.

The NSA talks came three weeks after both sides appointed new envoys - India naming seasoned diplomat Dinesh K Patnaik as high commissioner to Ottawa.