India has appointed seasoned diplomat Dinesh K. Patnaik as the country’s new High Commissioner to Canada, opening a new chapter in bilateral relations. A 1990-batch officer of the Indian Foreign Service (IFS), Patnaik brings over three decades of rich diplomatic experience and is currently serving as India’s Ambassador to Spain. He will soon assume charge in Ottawa, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. Hailing from Odisha, Patnaik has held important assignments across the world. He has served in India’s missions in Beijing, Dhaka, Vienna, and Geneva, and has also been India’s Ambassador to Morocco and Cambodia. As Deputy High Commissioner in London, he worked extensively on diaspora-related issues, which makes him well-prepared for his new role in Canada, home to a vibrant Indian community.

Patnaik’s appointment comes at a time when both India and Canada are working towards strengthening engagement and cooperation. His expertise in multilateral diplomacy, combined with his deep understanding of global issues, is expected to play a key role in advancing mutual interests in areas such as trade, education, technology, and cultural exchange. The development is also being seen as a step towards building stronger people-to-people ties and fostering greater collaboration between the two nations. In parallel, Canada has appointed Christopher Cooter as its new High Commissioner to India, a move that reflects a shared commitment to deepening the relationship.

With his vast experience and proven leadership, Dinesh Patnaik is well-placed to enhance India’s presence in Canada and take forward the vision of closer cooperation, mutual growth, and stronger friendship between the two countries.