Canada Appoints New Consul General in Mumbai as Diplomatic Ties Stabilize

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Canada has appointed Jeff David as its new Consul General in Mumbai, according to an announcement by Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand. He succeeds Diedrah Kelly, who previously held the role. The decision follows a broader effort by both nations to restore high-level diplomatic ties after nearly two years of strained relations.

The appointment comes in the wake of a serious diplomatic rift that began in 2023, when Canada accused India of involvement in the killing of Sikh separatist activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia. India strongly denied the allegation. The dispute escalated, prompting India to demand that Canada withdraw dozens of its diplomats from Indian soil, about 41 in October 2023, and Canada, in turn, reduced its presence significantly across Indian consulates. Diplomatic channels remained largely severed until June 2025, when India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta. The two leaders agreed to restore visa services, reinstate high commissioners, and rebuild relations based on “mutual respect for concerns and sensitivities, The announcement that Jeff David will take over as Consul General in Mumbai is seen as a strategic move: Mumbai is India’s most important financial hub and a centre for trade, investment, and consular services. The position is expected to strengthen Canada’s engagement in key areas such as technology, education, trade promotion, and support for the Indian diaspora in Canada.

According to press reports, Canada and India are also preparing to appoint new High Commissioners in each other’s capitals, with names exchanged and formal appointments anticipated soon Jeff David, who takes over from Diedrah Kelly, brings extensive diplomatic experience, including previous postings in Chongqing, China, and advisory roles in Ottawa. His appointment signals Canada’s intent to revive its presence at a crucial stage of bilateral reconciliationDespite persistent challenges, including unresolved issues related to electoral interference allegations and extremist threats, the normalization process is being described by analysts as a pragmatic reset. Both countries appear ready to move past the conflict of the past two years to rebuild cooperation across trade, education, clean energy, and security domains. India and Canada share one of the largest Indian diasporas globally, and maintain deep ties in commerce, culture, and education. Bilateral trade and investment continued throughout the diplomatic freeze, though at a tempered pace. Canada’s appointment of David to Mumbai, alongside plans to appoint high commissioners, demonstrates a renewed commitment to restoring full diplomatic channels and strengthening cooperation.

Moving forward, success will depend on careful diplomacy, transparent dialogue, and a willingness from both capitals to address contentious issues through institutional rather than public confrontation.