Trudeau and Modi's Brief Exchange at ASEAN Summit Highlights Ongoing Diplomatic Tensions

Canadian and Indian Prime Ministers meet in Laos amid unresolved allegations over the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

Justin Trudeau and Narendra Modi had a brief, non-substantive interaction at the ASEAN Summit in Laos, their first since allegations were made in 2023.
Trudeau reiterated the need for cooperation on safety and rule of law issues, while Modi's side emphasized concerns over anti-India activities in Canada.
Diplomatic relations remain strained following Trudeau's claims of Indian involvement in Nijjar's 2023 murder, which India has strongly denied.
Canadian Foreign Minister Mélanie Joly described the bilateral relations as 'tense' and 'very difficult', with concerns over potential further violence.
India expects Canada to take verifiable action against Khalistani elements, a point of contention in restoring diplomatic ties.