Indian envoy to Spain set for Canadian High Commissioner role
India is set to name Dinesh K Patnaik, currently Ambassador to Spain, as the new High Commissioner to Canada.
This move follows a recent meeting between PM Modi and Canadian PM Justin Trudeau at the G7 summit, where both agreed on steps to fix their rocky diplomatic ties.
Patnaik's appointment signals a fresh attempt at rebuilding trust
Relations between India and Canada have been tense after Canada accused Indian officials of involvement in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
This led both countries to expel diplomats and withdraw their high commissioners.
Patnaik's appointment signals a fresh attempt at rebuilding trust and working together on security, law enforcement, and trade.
Patnaik is a seasoned diplomat
Patnaik is a seasoned diplomat with over 30 years' experience in places like Geneva, Beijing, Dhaka, Vienna, Morocco, Cambodia, and London.
He's handled sensitive issues before and also led India's cultural diplomacy efforts.
Khobragade likely set to replace Patnaik in Spain
Jayant Khobragade—currently India's ambassador to ASEAN—is likely set to replace Patnaik in Spain.
Khobragade brings experience from postings in Russia, Pakistan, and Central Asia as part of this wider diplomatic reshuffle.