
Sun Jun 29 18:08:12 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article rewrite:
**Summary:**
Former Canadian High Commissioner to India, Stewart Beck, believes that Canada-India relations are poised for a reset under Prime Minister Mark Carney, whose pragmatic approach differs significantly from his predecessor, Justin Trudeau. Despite a historically complex relationship marred by nuclear proliferation concerns, the Air India bombing, and the persistent issue of Khalistani separatism, Beck sees potential for improved ties. He points to Carney’s handling of a recent meeting with Prime Minister Modi at the G-7 summit as a positive sign. While acknowledging the ongoing uncertainties surrounding the 2023 Nijjar assassination case and the need for trust-building, Beck is optimistic about collaboration in areas such as infrastructure investment, technology, and education, emphasizing the potential benefits for both countries. He also highlights the importance of managing sensitivities and navigating the complexities of freedom of speech within a multicultural society.
**News Article:**
**Canada-India Relations Primed for Reset Under Carney, Says Former High Commissioner**
**Ottawa – June 30, 2025** – A potential turning point in Canada-India relations is on the horizon with Prime Minister Mark Carney taking a more pragmatic approach than his predecessor, Justin Trudeau, according to Stewart Beck, former Canadian High Commissioner to India.
In an exclusive interview with The Hindu, Beck highlighted Carney’s recent meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G-7 summit as a clear signal of a desire to reset the relationship, which has been strained in recent years, particularly following allegations surrounding the 2023 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.
“Mr. Carney approaches relations with India quite positively, and he used the occasion of the G-7 to put the ties on a positive track,” said Beck. “India is a global player, and we need to figure out the best way to manage the relationship.”
Despite a historically complex relationship marked by periods of tension stemming from India’s nuclear program, the Air India bombing, and the persistent issue of Khalistani separatism, Beck expressed optimism. He believes the two countries can forge a stronger partnership, particularly in areas like infrastructure investment (fueled by Canadian pension funds), AI, biotechnology, and education.
Beck acknowledged the need to address the sensitivities surrounding the Nijjar case and potential new revelations. He stressed the importance of trust-building and open communication. “Whatever happened with the Nijjar assassination, we have to deal with it. It happened, there are accusations that remain, and we have to deal with that reality. We have not got all the facts,” he said.
He also emphasized the need to balance freedom of speech with the potential for harm, citing the glorification of the assassination of Mahatma Gandhi in Canadian parades as a particularly concerning issue.
While uncertainties remain, Beck believes that both Canada and India stand to benefit from closer ties, particularly in a rapidly changing global geopolitical landscape. “We are highly reliant on the U.S. for trade… India has tremendous potential for us in several areas,” he concluded.