In a pivotal move towards strengthening economic ties, Mark Carney has hailed the potential free trade agreement with India as a transformative opportunity. During discussions with India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal in Ottawa, the focus was on advancing the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Both leaders expressed optimism about reaching a conclusion this year, with Carney highlighting the potential benefits for Canadian sectors like energy, agriculture, technology, and education.
Goyal, bringing greetings from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasized the importance of bolstering long-term bilateral relations and expediting trade talks. The discussions were part of a broader effort to enhance cooperation, and Canada’s international trade minister, Maninder Sidhu, was also in attendance. The two countries have already completed two rounds of negotiations, with Canada set to host the upcoming round.
Accompanying Goyal on his visit to Canada is a substantial business delegation from India, comprising over 100 representatives engaged in trade and investment dialogues in Toronto. This visit underscores the commitment to fostering stronger economic ties through collaborative efforts and mutual investments.
Additionally, Goyal met with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand and Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald to explore possibilities for increased cooperation across various sectors. This renewed dialogue marks a positive shift in India-Canada relations, which had soured in 2023 following allegations linked to the killing of Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada—a claim India had denied.
Since Mark Carney assumed office in 2025, efforts to improve diplomatic relations have gained momentum, leading to the reactivation of CEPA negotiations. This renewed focus on partnership reflects a commitment to overcoming past tensions and building a robust economic relationship between the two countries.