During discussions in Ottawa, Mark Carney highlighted a proposed free trade agreement with India as a transformative opportunity. The talks, held with India’s commerce minister Piyush Goyal, centered around the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), which both sides hope to finalize this year. Carney emphasized that the agreement could significantly benefit Canadian workers and businesses, particularly in sectors such as energy, agriculture, technology, and education.
Piyush Goyal, who conveyed greetings from Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, discussed enhancing long-term bilateral cooperation and accelerating trade negotiations. The talks included Canada’s international trade minister, Maninder Sidhu, with both countries confirming that they have already completed two rounds of negotiations. The next round is scheduled to take place in Canada.
Accompanying Goyal on his visit to Canada is a substantial business delegation from India, comprising over 100 business representatives. They are set to engage in trade and investment discussions in Toronto, underscoring the commitment to strengthening economic ties between the two nations.
In addition to trade talks, Goyal met with Canadian foreign minister Anita Anand and agriculture minister Heath MacDonald. These meetings aim to deepen cooperation across various sectors, highlighting a broad-based approach to enhancing bilateral relations.
The renewed engagement marks a positive shift in India-Canada relations, which had previously been strained in 2023 due to allegations involving the killing of Khalistan figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada—allegations that India had firmly rejected. The diplomatic climate began to improve following Carney’s assumption of office in 2025, which led to the relaunch of CEPA negotiations and a renewed focus on diplomatic engagement.