India, Canada Boost Security Cooperation, Agree on ‘Shared Work Plan’ After Doval’s Visit What It Means

A Strategic Reset in India-Canada Ties

India and Canada have agreed to deepen security cooperation and work together more systematically on shared priorities after the recent visit of India’s National Security Adviser, Ajit Doval, to Ottawa. The two countries signed a “shared work plan” aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and addressing mutual security concerns.

This development comes amid efforts by both governments to rebuild trust and enhance strategic engagement.

Why the Visit Mattered

Ajit Doval’s visit marked the highest-level security dialogue between India and Canada in recent years. It provided a platform to address longstanding issues and reset the bilateral relationship after a period of diplomatic strain.

The talks focused on cooperation in areas of cybersecurity, counterterrorism, and defence engagement — key areas of concern for both capitals.

What the Shared Work Plan Includes

The newly agreed work plan outlines a roadmap for cooperation across multiple security domains. It emphasizes:

Coordinated efforts to counter terrorism and violent extremism
Enhanced intelligence and law enforcement collaboration
Cybersecurity partnerships and information-sharing protocols
Joint initiatives on border security and threat assessments

This structured plan aims to institutionalise cooperation rather than rely on ad-hoc arrangements.

Addressing Mutual Security Challenges

Both India and Canada have faced evolving security threats, including cyber intrusions, extremist activity, and transnational criminal networks. The shared work plan reflects recognition that these challenges cross borders and require coordinated responses.

Officials from both sides described the agreement as a step toward more predictable and effective engagement.

Economic and Strategic Dimensions

Beyond security, the renewed cooperation has implications for broader bilateral relations, including trade and investment ties. Stabilising diplomatic relations and improving security coordination can foster a more conducive environment for economic engagement between the two democracies.

Enhanced cooperation is expected to boost investor confidence and bilateral business opportunities.

A Response to Global Geopolitical Shifts

The world’s shifting geopolitical dynamics including competition among major powers and emerging security threats — have encouraged medium and large-power democracies to strengthen partnerships. India and Canada’s shared focus on security cooperation aligns with this global trend.

Both nations benefit from greater interoperability and strategic dialogue.

Rebuilding Institutional Trust

The process of formalising a shared work plan also signals a broader effort to rebuild institutional trust. Both sides have emphasised that regular high-level engagements, joint exercises, and structured meetings will be part of implementing the plan.

This can help avoid miscommunication and build long-term predictability.

Public and Political Reactions

Commentators and policy experts in both countries have viewed the agreement as a pragmatic step. While domestic politics has sometimes strained bilateral relations, the focus on shared security interests reflects a willingness to prioritise strategic cooperation.

Civil society and business groups also welcomed the potential for improved ties and stability.

Looking Ahead: Implementation Matters

The true test of the shared work plan will be in its implementation over the coming months and years. Concrete actions — such as joint training, intelligence exchanges, and coordinated cybersecurity responses — will shape how effective the partnership becomes.

Regular review meetings and updates on progress are expected to keep momentum on track.

The Bigger Picture

India and Canada’s renewed security cooperation and shared work plan demonstrate that even complex bilateral relations can evolve through sustained dialogue and alignment of strategic interests.

This latest development underscores that cooperation on security is increasingly central to how nations navigate shared challenges in a rapidly changing world.