Canada and India Resume Talks Aiming to Double Trade by 2030
OTTAWA – canada and India have restarted discussions focused on bolstering economic ties, with a goal of doubling bilateral trade to US$50 billion by 2030, officials announced sunday. The move comes amidst ongoing tensions stemming from Canadian allegations of indian government involvement in the assassination of a Sikh activist near Vancouver.
Despite the diplomatic strain, both nations recognize the significant economic benefits of a strengthened partnership. Canada is currently India’s seventh-largest trading partner and a major foreign investor in the country, and both sides acknowledge a shifting global trade landscape requiring collaborative efforts. The discussions took place during a meeting between canadian officials and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Speaking ahead of the meeting, Canada’s High Commissioner to India, cameron MacKay, emphasized the importance of maintaining a security dialog to share details, preserve sovereignty, and rebuild trust. “When it comes to any form of foreign interference, we must remain vigilant, and we are,” MacKay said. He also acknowledged India as a reliable trading partner, despite occasional disputes.
The renewed focus on trade follows Canada’s participation in a trilateral agreement with India and Australia on advanced technologies, signed Saturday.Minister of Public Services and Procurement Anita Anand highlighted the shared concerns between the two countries, stating, “The current objective is to ensure that we obtain investments that strengthen the Canadian economy.” she added that both nations are aware of the reorganization of the global trade order and the instability of the geopolitical habitat.
High Commissioner MacKay is expected to visit India next year,potentially during February’s AI summit in New Delhi,where canada is leading a working group. A federal investigation earlier this year identified india as one of the countries most actively engaged in foreign interference within Canada. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) is continuing to investigate the allegations surrounding the assassination.
