Prime Minister Mark Carney and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi have agreed to initiate talks for a new trade agreement known as a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement. Carney expressed in a social media post that the trade deal could potentially double Canada-India trade to $70 billion, emphasizing the significant opportunities it presents for Canadian workers and businesses given India’s status as the world’s fifth-largest economy.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs confirmed the development in a news release, announcing Modi’s invitation for Carney to visit India, which the latter accepted for early 2026. This move signals a positive shift in the diplomatic relations between the two countries following previous tensions related to allegations regarding the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil in 2023.
The recent meeting between Carney and Modi at the G20 summit in Johannesburg indicates a growing rapport, marking their second face-to-face interaction since Carney assumed office. Dinesh Patnaik, India’s high commissioner to Canada, highlighted ongoing trade discussions that have been progressing since the G7 summit.
Although talks for a comprehensive trade deal between Canada and India were initiated 15 years ago, they were later downgraded to focus on specific industries until 2023. Following the public allegations concerning Nijjar’s killing, trade talks were suspended by Ottawa.
Modi, in a social media post, described his meeting with Carney as productive and acknowledged the positive momentum in bilateral ties since their previous encounter during the G7 Summit. Despite ongoing security concerns and allegations of threats from India, both countries are committed to fostering a safe and collaborative relationship.
The article also mentions a forthcoming independence referendum in Ottawa organized by Sikhs for Justice, a movement advocating for an independent Sikh Punjab. The new leader of the Canadian chapter criticized the premature efforts by the Carney government to restore diplomatic ties with India, citing ongoing security issues and violence.
In conclusion, Carney reiterated Canada’s commitment to strengthening trade relations with India, emphasizing the importance of vigilance against foreign interference. The focus remains on safeguarding the interests and safety of Canadians while fostering cooperation with Indian authorities on security matters.