Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Canada in December as both nations aim to finalize negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by the end of 2026, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on Tuesday. The announcement comes as India and Canada strive to enhance their economic and diplomatic relations.
Carney, speaking at the United Nations General Assembly in New York, emphasized the progress in ongoing CEPA negotiations with India, highlighting the importance of the bilateral relationship in trade, investment, security, and cultural connections. The visit, anticipated to coincide with the G20 summit in Miami, would be Modi’s first standalone bilateral visit to Canada since 2015.
Negotiations for the CEPA are moving forward, with the fifth round of discussions scheduled for October 5. This follows the recent conclusion of the fourth round earlier in September. Both countries have expressed a commitment to accelerating talks, aiming to complete the agreement by the stated deadline of 2026.
Modi’s upcoming visit marks a continuation of efforts to mend and strengthen ties after a period of diplomatic strain between the two countries. In March 2026, Carney visited India, where he and Indian officials agreed to hasten CEPA discussions and broaden cooperation in areas such as energy, technology, artificial intelligence, and defense.
The proposed CEPA is designed to significantly boost trade and investment between India and Canada, with Canada setting a goal to double bilateral trade to C$70 billion annually by 2030. In 2025, the trade value between the two countries reached C$30.4 billion, encompassing goods and services.
Recent high-level meetings and negotiations underscore the mutual interest in rebuilding a robust partnership, focusing on expanding collaboration across multiple sectors. As both nations push forward with their economic engagement, Modi’s visit to Canada is seen as a pivotal moment in their shared future.