In a significant development, Mark Carney has touted a proposed free trade agreement with India as a transformative opportunity during discussions in Ottawa with India’s commerce minister, Piyush Goyal. The dialogue centered on advancing the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with both leaders expressing optimism about finalizing the agreement by the end of the year. Carney emphasized the potential of the deal to unlock substantial opportunities for Canadian workers and businesses, particularly in sectors such as energy, agriculture, technology, and education.
Piyush Goyal, who extended greetings from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighted the focus on fortifying long-term bilateral cooperation and expediting trade negotiations. Canada’s international trade minister, Maninder Sidhu, was also present, confirming that two rounds of negotiations have been completed, and Canada is set to host the next session. A large business delegation from India, comprising over 100 representatives, is accompanying Goyal on his visit to Canada, engaging in trade and investment discussions scheduled in Toronto.
In addition to his meeting with Carney, Goyal held talks with Canadian foreign minister Anita Anand and agriculture minister Heath MacDonald, aiming to deepen collaboration across various sectors. This renewed momentum signifies a notable improvement in India-Canada relations following heightened tensions in 2023. The diplomatic strain was primarily due to allegations concerning the killing of Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, which India had dismissed as unfounded accusations by former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Since Carney assumed office in 2025, diplomatic engagement between the two nations has been revitalized, leading to the resumption of CEPA negotiations. This progress marks a pivotal moment in repairing and strengthening ties, with both countries focused on leveraging the agreement to bolster economic and collaborative efforts in the years ahead.