Overview

• 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.