In a significant development for international trade relations, Mark Carney has hailed a proposed free trade agreement with India as transformative during discussions with India’s commerce minister, Piyush Goyal, in Ottawa. The dialogue centered around the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with both leaders optimistic about concluding the deal within the current year. Carney emphasized the potential of the agreement to unlock substantial opportunities for Canadian workers and businesses, particularly in the sectors of energy, agriculture, technology, and education.
Piyush Goyal, conveying greetings from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, highlighted the focus of the discussions on bolstering long-term bilateral cooperation and expediting trade negotiations. The talks were further enriched by the presence of Canada’s international trade minister, Maninder Sidhu, who confirmed that two rounds of negotiations have been successfully completed, with Canada poised to host the next round.
Accompanying Goyal on his visit to Canada is a large business delegation from India, consisting of over 100 business representatives. They are engaged in trade and investment discussions set to take place in Toronto. The visit underscores the intention to strengthen economic ties and explore mutual benefits in trade and investment between the two nations.
As part of the efforts to expand cooperation across various sectors, Goyal also held meetings with Canadian foreign minister Anita Anand and agriculture minister Heath MacDonald. This renewed vigor in diplomatic relations marks a turning point, especially following the tensions that arose in 2023 concerning allegations about the killing of Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada, accusations which India had firmly denied.
The improvement in relations has been notable since Carney assumed office in 2025, which facilitated the revitalization of diplomatic engagement and the relaunch of CEPA negotiations. This progress reflects a mutual commitment to overcoming past challenges and fostering a robust partnership between India and Canada.