India and Canada Establish Security Liaison Officers in Historic Agreement
In a groundbreaking development, India and Canada have agreed to appoint security liaison officers for the first time, marking a significant step in bilateral cooperation. This initiative aims to facilitate robust information-sharing on critical issues such as drug-trafficking and transnational organised criminal networks. The agreement was finalized during the two-day visit of National Security Advisor Ajit Doval to Ottawa on February 6-7, 2026.
Key Meetings and Diplomatic Progress
During his visit, NSA Ajit Doval held crucial discussions with Nathalie Drouin, the National Security and Intelligence Advisor to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. The Ministry of External Affairs released a statement on Sunday, highlighting the progress made on initiatives designed to bolster the safety and security of both nations and their citizens. The statement emphasized that the two sides have agreed to a shared work plan to guide bilateral cooperation on national security and law enforcement matters, enabling practical collaboration on respective priorities.
This visit is part of the regular bilateral security dialogue between India and Canada, underscoring a renewed commitment to partnership. The diplomatic relationship has undergone a significant reset over the past year, since the beginning of Prime Minister Carney's term. This shift moves away from the previous chill over the Hardeep Singh Nijjar assassination in 2023 towards a more pragmatic and constructive partnership.
Broader Bilateral Initiatives and Future Prospects
Beyond security, the two countries are exploring several key initiatives to strengthen ties. These include a potential uranium deal worth over $2 billion, revived trade negotiations under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, and renewed cooperation in critical minerals, security, and counter-terrorism efforts. Prime Minister Carney is expected to visit India later this year to further cement these ties, although no official dates have been announced yet.
The recent meeting between Doval and Drouin also focused on formalizing cooperation in cybersecurity policy and information-sharing on cybersecurity issues. Additionally, discussions are ongoing regarding collaboration on fraud and immigration enforcement. During his visit, Doval met with Gary Anandasangaree, Canada's Minister for Public Safety, on Friday, further solidifying the commitment to joint efforts.
The establishment of security and law-enforcement liaison officers is seen as a pivotal move to streamline bilateral communications. This step will enable timely information-sharing on mutual concerns, such as the illegal flow of drugs, particularly fentanyl precursors, and transnational organized criminal networks. Both nations have taken calibrated and constructive steps to restore stability in their relationship, starting with the early return of High Commissioners to each other's capitals.
This agreement follows a positive meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis in June last year. The ongoing efforts reflect a shared vision for enhanced cooperation and a stronger bilateral framework in the years to come.
