NEW data from the non-profit Angus Reid Institute, in partnership with the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, finds that Canadians believe – by a two-to-one margin (51% to 22%) – it was the “right move” rather than the wrong one to restore ties with India. The two countries had recalled diplomats after Trudeau levelled allegations that India was involved in the killing of a Canadian Sikh activist in Canada in 2023.
Alongside this openness to reconnection, Canadians are expressing notes of caution. A majority (54%) have unfavourable views of India, and three-in-five (59%) believe Canada should approach the world’s most populous country at least with caution (35%) or as a potential threat or enemy (23%).
Alongside this openness to reconnection, Canadians are expressing notes of caution. A majority (54%) have unfavourable views of India, and three-in-five (59%) believe Canada should approach the world’s most populous country at least with caution (35%) or as a potential threat or enemy (23%).
More Key Findings:
- Canadians are split as to whether India is “as good a trade partner as any” (38%) or one Canada should avoid (34%).
- Prior to the allegations of India’s involvement in the murder – levelled by Trudeau – Canadians were as likely to view India favourably (44%) as unfavourably (43%). Since then, unfavourable views have been the majority opinion.
