New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to hold a bilateral meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney today on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta. This marks their first in-person interaction since Prime Minister Carney assumed office following Canada's recent general elections.
The meeting presents an opportunity for both leaders to engage in open and forward-looking discussions regarding the current state and future direction of India-Canada relations. Both leaders are expected to discuss opportunities for collaboration in various fields, including clean energy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, LNG, food security, critical minerals, higher education, mobility, and supply chain resilience. They are also likely to reaffirm their shared interest in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
The leaders are likely to address the importance of restarting stalled negotiations on the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA) to pave the way for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). They may task their respective officials to further engage in this matter.
Both leaders acknowledge the progress made at the G7 Summit and their shared willingness to collaborate on global priorities such as climate action, inclusive growth, and sustainable development. They also recognize the strong people-to-people connections between the two countries and aim to leverage this bond to benefit both nations.
The meeting is expected to underscore the importance of resuming senior ministerial and working-level engagements across various domains to rebuild trust and bring momentum to the relationship. Both leaders are committed to taking measured and constructive steps to restore stability in the relationship, starting with the prompt return of High Commissioners to their respective capitals.
Prime Minister Modi has described India-Canada relations as "extremely important". He stated that India and Canada are connected by a strong belief in democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. Prime Minister Carney welcomed PM Modi to the G7, acknowledging India's significant role and leadership.
The discussions occur at a crucial time as India seeks to expand its global presence through multilateral engagements. The meeting aims to strengthen India-Canada ties in areas such as trade, energy, AI, and anti-terror cooperation.
