The lady is a tiger: Canada's erratic courtship of India

Abstract

Canada has discovered India as an important political and trading partner, but for a number of reasons linked to history, including the nuclear disputes, and the Air India tragedy, bilateral relations are more promising than they are fruitful. It will take sustained attention at the political level, and far-reaching reforms to our approach to immigration, education and tourism promotion to grow the relationship. Canadians need to recognize that India's number one foreign policy priority is its relationship with the Asian dragon, China. Canada's extensive experience in China may prove very useful as we work out a new understanding with the other great, and insecure Asian power, the Indian tiger.

Keywords:

• Canada
• India
• bilateral relations

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Lucie Edwards

Lucie Edwards is a candidate for a doctorate in Global Governance, specializing in science and environmental policy, at the University of Waterloo. She has moved to academe following a long and distinguished career in the Canadian Public Service. She retired in December 2009 as Chief Strategist and Head of the Department of Foreign Affairs' Office for Transformation. From 2003 to 2006 she served as Canada's High Commissioner to India. She had previously served as High Commissioner in South Africa and Kenya. Email: [email protected]