During discussions in Ottawa, Mark Carney characterized a potential free trade agreement with India as a transformative opportunity. The talks, held with India’s commerce minister Piyush Goyal, centered on the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with both parties expressing hope to finalize the deal within the year. Carney highlighted that the agreement could significantly benefit Canadian workers and businesses, particularly in sectors such as energy, agriculture, technology, and education.
Piyush Goyal, bringing greetings from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, emphasized the focus on strengthening long-term bilateral cooperation and expediting trade negotiations. The meeting was attended by Canada’s international trade minister, Maninder Sidhu, who confirmed that two rounds of negotiations have already been completed. Canada is set to host the subsequent round of discussions.
Accompanying Goyal is a substantial business delegation from India, comprising more than 100 representatives engaged in trade and investment dialogues in Toronto. This visit underscores the commitment to deepening economic ties between the two nations.
In addition to his discussions with Carney, Goyal also met with Canadian foreign minister Anita Anand and agriculture minister Heath MacDonald. These meetings are part of broader efforts to enhance cooperation across various sectors.
The renewed momentum in India-Canada relations marks a notable improvement following the tensions in 2023 over allegations concerning the killing of Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, which India had denied. Relations began to thaw after Carney assumed office in 2025, leading to a revival of diplomatic engagement and the restart of CEPA talks.