India and Canada today exchanged three agreements in different areas including critical mineral cooperation, promoting the use of renewable energy and cultural cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart Mark Carney today held delegation-level talks at Hyderabad House in New Delhi. During the talks, both leaders reviewed the progress achieved till date across diverse areas of the India-Canada Strategic Partnership. They also took stock of ongoing cooperation in key pillars including trade and investment, energy, critical minerals, agriculture, education, research, and innovation, and people-to-people ties. The two leaders also exchanged views on regional and global developments.
Addressing the joint press meet with his Canadian counterpart Mark Carney, Mr Modi said, the current situation in West Asia is a matter of deep concern. He said, India supports the resolution of all disputes through dialogue and diplomacy. Mr Modi added that India will continue to work with all countries to ensure the safety of all Indian citizens in the region.
Prime Minister Modi underlined that terrorism, extremism, and radicalization are common and serious challenges not only for both the countries but for the entire humanity. He said, close cooperation between both the countries against these is vital for global peace and stability.
Prime Minister Modi said India and Canada have set an ambitious target to expand bilateral trade to 50 billion dollars by 2030. He said, this will unlock the full potential of economic cooperation, which remains a key priority. Mr Modi said, the two sides have also decided to expedite the finalization of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). He added that this will create new opportunities for investment and employment in both countries.
Prime Minister Modi said that India and Canada will work towards enhancing defence industries, maritime domain awareness, and military exchanges. He added that the two sides have today decided to establish the India-Canada Defence Dialogue. Mr Modi said, both the countries share an unwavering commitment to democratic values. He said, both countries celebrate diversity and are united by a common vision of working for the welfare of humanity.
Prime Minister of Canada Mark Carney said that Canada is renewing its relationship with India and expanding its ties. He said, Canada and India are building a strong foundation in trade, Defence and energy.
Prime Minister of Canada is on a four day visit to India from 27th of last month. Prime Minister Carney, who assumed office in March last year, is on his first full-fledged bilateral visit to India.
Earlier in the morning, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar called on Prime Minister of Canada Mark Carney in New Delhi. In a social media post, Dr Jaishankar appreciated his commitment towards charting a forward looking partnership.
Later Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Carney will also attend the India-Canada CEOs Forum.
