Doval meets Canadian security chief: New plan to tackle drugs, cybercrime, organised crime

The two leaders acknowledged progress on initiatives aimed at ensuring the safety and security of their countries and citizens.

This marked Doval’s first visit to Canada since Ottawa accused India of involvement in the 2023 killing of Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar.

In a statement, India’s Ministry of External Affairs said the officials “agreed on a shared workplan to guide bilateral cooperation on national security and law enforcement issues and to enable practical collaboration on respective priorities.”

During the meeting, both sides agreed to appoint security and law-enforcement liaison officers and to strengthen working relationships between their respective agencies.

“This important step will streamline bilateral communications and enable timely information sharing on issues of mutual concern, such as the illegal flow of drugs—particularly fentanyl precursors—and transnational organized criminal networks,” the statement added.

The two countries also committed to formalizing cooperation on cybersecurity policy, information sharing, and continued discussions on fraud and immigration enforcement, in accordance with domestic laws and international obligations.

Doval’s visit signals a visible effort by India and Canada to stabilise relations following the 2023 tensions over Nijjar’s killing. 
New Delhi had rejected allegations by the former PM Justin Trudeau-led government linking India to the incident, which had led to diplomatic expulsions, suspended trade talks, and a slowdown in political engagement.

Over time, both nations have sought to re-engage and normalise diplomatic ties. 

Media reports indicate that Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to visit India next month.