During discussions in Ottawa, Mark Carney hailed a proposed free trade agreement with India as a transformative opportunity. Engaging with India’s Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal, Carney emphasized that the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) could significantly benefit Canadian workers and businesses in key sectors such as energy, agriculture, technology, and education. Both leaders expressed optimism about finalizing the deal within the year.
Piyush Goyal, who conveyed greetings from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighted the focus on enhancing long-term bilateral cooperation and expediting trade negotiations. The talks also included Canada’s International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu, who confirmed that two rounds of negotiations have already been completed, with Canada preparing to host the next session.
Accompanying Goyal is a substantial business delegation from India, comprising over 100 business representatives. This group is engaging in trade and investment discussions in Toronto, underscoring the deepening economic ties between the two nations. During his visit, Goyal also met with Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand and Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald to explore collaboration across multiple sectors.
The renewed momentum in trade discussions marks a significant thaw in India-Canada relations, which had soured in 2023 following allegations tied to the killing of Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, accusations India had dismissed. The diplomatic climate began to improve after Carney assumed office in 2025, leading to resumed negotiations on CEPA.