In a significant stride toward enhancing trade relations, Mark Carney has hailed a proposed free trade agreement with India as a transformative opportunity. During discussions with India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal in Ottawa, both leaders expressed optimism about concluding the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) within the year. Carney emphasized that the agreement could unlock substantial prospects for Canadian workers and businesses, particularly in the sectors of energy, agriculture, technology, and education.
Goyal, bringing greetings from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighted the focus on bolstering long-term bilateral cooperation and expediting trade negotiations. Participating in the talks was Canada’s International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu, who confirmed that two negotiation rounds have already been completed, with Canada preparing to host the next session. This development signals a robust commitment from both nations to advance their economic relationship.
Accompanying Goyal is a major Indian business delegation, comprising over 100 representatives engaged in trade and investment discussions scheduled in Toronto. This visit underscores the vibrant interest in fostering stronger economic ties between the two countries. As part of his Canada tour, Goyal also held meetings with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand and Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald to explore opportunities for collaboration across various sectors.
The reinvigorated talks mark a positive turn in India-Canada relations, which had previously been strained in 2023 following allegations concerning the killing of Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. India had dismissed the accusations made by former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. However, relations have seen substantial improvement since Carney assumed office in 2025, facilitating renewed diplomatic engagement and the revival of CEPA negotiations.