Canada’s Minister of International Trade, Maninder Sidhu, mentioned that India and Canada are in talks for a significant business agreement, with India sending its largest-ever business delegation to Canada. Minister Sidhu expressed eagerness to enhance the economic partnership with India, citing positive feedback from various business communities and stakeholders across Canada. The visit of India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal, was deemed timely, especially in light of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) discussions and a recent CAD 2.6 billion uranium deal.
Minister Sidhu emphasized the importance of the ongoing meetings and negotiations between the two countries, aiming to finalize a deal within the year through collaborative efforts and effective communication channels, including “WhatsApp diplomacy.” Additionally, he announced plans to lead a Canadian trade mission to India later in the year to reciprocate the enthusiasm shown by Minister Goyal during his visit to Canada. Minister Goyal, in a joint media address, highlighted the transformative impact of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s recent visit to India, signaling a shift in the bilateral relationship towards new agendas and shared prosperity.
Minister Goyal underscored the commitment to triple trade between Canada and India from USD 17 billion to USD 50 billion by 2030, as directed by the respective Prime Ministers. He emphasized the strategic importance of the Canada-India relationship, recognizing both countries as significant economies that share common values of prosperity, peace, and security. Minister Goyal expressed optimism about the future collaboration between the two democracies in contributing to global economic growth and stability.
