What are the reasons behind Trudeau's resignation?
1. Decline in popularity: Trudeau's approval rating had fallen to 22%. According to the survey, more than 50% of Canadians were supporting the Conservative Party.
2. Internal pressure: Liberal Party MPs had demanded Trudeau's resignation. Key allies like Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland had also resigned
3. Threat of US tariffs: Donald Trump's threat to increase import duty by 25% had put Canada's economy in worry.
4. Tension with India: India was accused of pro-Khalistan leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar's murder case. The allegations had pushed bilateral relations into a icy phase.
Mark Carney: Who is Canada's new PM?
Economist background: Carney has been a former governor of Canada and the Bank of England. His role during the 2008 economic recession was commendable.
Political experience: Despite turning down the offer to become the Finance Minister in the Trudeau government, he was considered a "kingmaker".
Attitude towards India: Carney had earlier said that "relations with India should be strengthened". Experts believe that he will adopt a more balanced approach than Trudeau.
India-Canada relations: What changes are expected?
1. Softening on the Khalistan issue?
Trudeau patronized Khalistan supporters to please the Sikh vote bank, which angered India.
The challenge before Carney will be to maintain a balance between the Sikh community and India. According to experts, his priority may be the economy, in which cooperation with India is necessary.
2. Diplomatic re-engagement:
During Trudeau's tenure, both countries expelled each other's diplomats.
The possibility of dialogue on these issues may increase under Carney's leadership. Former Indian Foreign Secretary Kanwal Sibal says, "New leadership offers a chance for a new beginning".
3. US-Canada-India equation:
Carney has been critical of Donald Trump. Amid tensions with Trump, strengthening ties with India may be in Canada's interest.
Experts' opinion:
Prof. Harsh V. Pant (Observer Research Foundation): "Trudeau's departure has created scope for improvement in India-Canada relations, but pressure from the Sikh lobby within the Liberal Party will remain".
Michael Kugelman (Wilson Centre): "Carney should prioritise trade and security cooperation with India".
Conclusion:
Mark Carney faces the triple challenge of economic reform, trade tensions with the US, and getting relations with India back on track. In India's eyes, Carney's leadership can be like a "reset button", but this is possible only if Canada takes concrete action against Khalistani extremism. At the moment, hopes of thawing ice between the two countries have increased!