As part of the Indo-Pacific Initiative supported by the Government of Canada, the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada launched the India-Canada Research Initiative (ICRI) in September 2024. Based in New Delhi at the Council for Strategic and Defense Research (CSDR), the ICRI provides a platform to strengthen bilateral relations between India and Canada through academic exchange, policy research, and strategic engagement, with a focus on enhancing bilateral co-operation across key sectors.
By bringing together stakeholders from both Canada and India, the ICRI helps to sustain essential communication channels during times of diplomatic strain and produces policy-focused research and recommendations that align with Canada’s broader Indo-Pacific Strategy (IPS).
The initiative directly advances the IPS objective of “promoting peace, resilience, and security,” by hosting closed-door dialogues and public roundtables that address mutual security concerns, diaspora politics, and trust-building.
As the initiative progresses, it will expand to support two additional IPS strategic objectives: "building resilient and diversified supply chains and supporting inclusive trade" through research on critical minerals and technological innovation, and "building a sustainable and inclusive future" by exploring co-operation on climate action and agricultural innovation.
Leadership
The ICRI is chaired by Mr. Ajay Bisaria, former High Commissioner of India to Canada. Mr. Bisaria brings extensive diplomatic experience and a deep understanding of bilateral relations to the initiative. The project also includes a network of scholars, researchers, and distinguished fellows based in New Delhi. The ICRI maintains a dedicated web presence that serves as a digital hub for its activities.
Research and Analysis
The ICRI focuses on producing well-researched, objective analysis to inform policy decisions on Canada-India relations and broader issues of shared interest in the Indo-Pacific region.
Recent publication:
- Recalibrating India-Canada Relations: A Strategic Assessment for 2025 and Beyond – This report analyzes the current state of bilateral relations and offers strategic recommendations for strengthening the partnership.
Events and Engagements
The India-Canada Research Initiative convenes both public and private events that bring together key stakeholders from Canada and India to foster dialogue and strategic engagement.
- In February 2025, a closed-door discussion was held to promote dialogue on pressing bilateral issues. The event in New Delhi, India, brought together senior diplomats, policy experts, and thought leaders from both countries.
- On February 15, 2025, a public roundtable discussion titled "India-Canada Relations: Moving Beyond the Fault-lines" was convened in New Delhi, India, featuring participation from senior journalists, media personalities, diplomats, academics, and business leaders.
Public Engagement
The ICRI has established itself as a valuable thought partner for stakeholders in both countries — including governments, think tanks, the research and higher education sectors, and members of the Canada-India economic corridor. Recognizing the importance of public discourse in shaping bilateral relations, the ICRI actively engages with the media to promote policy-focused discussions. The Chair and distinguished fellows are frequent contributors to newspaper op-eds and expert commentary.
Recent op-ed:
Carney’s Burden: Trump, Trade & a New World Order by Ajay Bisaria and Nadir Patel, Hindustan Times.
For more information on the ICRI email info@asiapacific.ca.
