During discussions in Ottawa, Mark Carney characterized a prospective free trade agreement with India as a transformative opportunity. The talks with India’s commerce minister, Piyush Goyal, centered on advancing the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with both parties hopeful about concluding the deal within the year. Carney emphasized that the agreement could unlock significant prospects for Canadian workers and businesses, particularly in the energy, agriculture, technology, and education sectors.
Piyush Goyal, relaying greetings from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighted that the conversations aimed at fortifying long-term bilateral relations and expediting trade negotiations. Canada’s international trade minister, Maninder Sidhu, was also present in the talks. The two nations confirmed that two rounds of negotiations have already been completed and that Canada will host the next round.
Accompanying Goyal on his visit to Canada is a substantial business delegation from India, comprising over 100 business representatives. These delegates are actively participating in trade and investment discussions scheduled to take place in Toronto. In addition to trade dialogues, Goyal engaged with Canadian foreign minister Anita Anand and agriculture minister Heath MacDonald to explore deeper cooperation across various sectors.
This renewed momentum in negotiations marks a notable improvement in India-Canada relations, which had suffered due to tensions in 2023. The strain arose from accusations concerning the killing of Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, allegations that India had firmly denied when raised by former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Relations have been on the mend since Carney assumed office in 2025, leading to a resurgence in diplomatic interactions and the revival of CEPA discussions. This development reflects a concerted effort by both nations to move past previous disputes and focus on enhancing economic ties.