In a recent meeting in Ottawa, Mark Carney lauded the potential of a proposed free trade agreement with India as a transformative opportunity. During discussions with India’s commerce minister, Piyush Goyal, Carney highlighted the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) as a catalyst for creating substantial prospects for Canadian workers and businesses across pivotal sectors such as energy, agriculture, technology, and education.
Both leaders expressed optimism about concluding the deal by the end of the year. Carney and Goyal’s discussions emphasized not only the economic benefits but also the strengthening of long-term bilateral cooperation. Goyal, who conveyed greetings from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, underscored the focus on accelerating trade negotiations during their talks.
Canada’s international trade minister, Maninder Sidhu, also joined the discussions, confirming that two rounds of negotiations had already been completed. The next round is slated to be hosted by Canada, signaling ongoing progress in the trade talks. Accompanying Goyal on his visit to Canada, a major Indian business delegation comprising over 100 representatives is actively engaging in trade and investment dialogues scheduled in Toronto.
In addition to his meeting with Carney, Goyal also held discussions with Canadian foreign minister Anita Anand and agriculture minister Heath MacDonald. These meetings are part of a broader initiative to enhance cooperation across various sectors. This renewed momentum in India-Canada relations marks a departure from the tensions experienced in 2023 over allegations involving the killing of Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada—a claim India had dismissed.
Relations between the two countries have seen a notable improvement since Carney assumed office in 2025. His tenure has been characterized by renewed diplomatic engagement, leading to the revitalization of CEPA negotiations and fostering a more collaborative spirit between India and Canada.