Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand emphasized Canada’s commitment to prioritizing public safety, transnational repression, and foreign interference while discussing a trade deal with India. Anand highlighted the importance of addressing these issues with all countries, not just India, as part of the government’s top priorities.
Anand revealed that the government is adjusting the economic relationship with India while ensuring Canadian law enforcement agencies maintain their independence and effectiveness. This announcement followed the agreement between Canada and India to begin negotiations for a new trade agreement, which was disclosed after Prime Minister Mark Carney’s meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G20 summit in South Africa.
Prime Minister Carney shared on social media that a potential trade deal could potentially double the Canada-India trade to $70 billion, emphasizing the significant economic opportunities for both countries. This development signals a positive shift in diplomatic relations between the two nations following past tensions related to alleged Indian involvement in the killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar on Canadian soil.
Anand acknowledged the evolving global trade landscape, citing changes necessitated by shifts like U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff policies. She affirmed that Canada’s foreign policy remains grounded in core values such as safeguarding democratic institutions against transnational repression.
India’s high commissioner to Canada, Dinesh Patnaik, underscored the ongoing trade discussions between the two countries and stressed the importance of addressing security concerns alongside strengthening bilateral ties. Patnaik emphasized the mutual understanding between Canada and India regarding the need for safe environments for their respective citizens.
Meanwhile, Sikh activists expressed their rejection of Carney’s engagement with India, coinciding with a referendum in Ottawa organized by Sikhs for Justice advocating for an independent Sikh Punjab. The referendum, which garnered substantial participation from Canadian Sikhs nationwide, conveyed a clear message of disapproval towards the Canadian government’s approach to relations with India.
Carney reiterated Canada’s perspective on India as a reliable trade partner with vast economic potential, emphasizing the necessity of vigilance against foreign interference. He highlighted the collaboration between Canadian and Indian law enforcement and national security agencies in safeguarding citizens against potential threats.
In conclusion, the negotiations for a new trade deal between Canada and India signify a significant step towards enhancing economic ties while maintaining a vigilant stance on security matters and upholding core democratic values.
