India and Canada exchanged three agreements today in various areas, including cooperation on critical minerals, promoting the use of renewable energy, and cultural cooperation. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Canadian counterpart, Mark Carney, held delegation-level talks at the Hyderabad House in New Delhi today. During the talks, both leaders reviewed the progress achieved in various areas of the India-Canada Strategic Partnership. They also discussed ongoing cooperation in key areas such as 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 a joint press conference with his Canadian counterpart, Mark Carney, Prime Minister Modi said that the current situation in West Asia is a matter of serious concern. He stated that India supports resolving all disputes through dialogue and diplomacy. Prime Minister 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 emphasized that terrorism, extremism, and radicalization are common and serious challenges not only for both countries but for the entire humanity. He said that close cooperation between both countries against these is vital for global peace and stability.
Prime Minister Modi said that India and Canada have set an ambitious target to expand bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030. He said that this will unlock the full potential of economic cooperation, which remains a key priority. Prime Minister Modi also stated that both sides have 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. Prime Minister Modi said that both countries share an unwavering commitment to democratic values. He said that 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 that Canada and India are building a strong foundation in trade, defence, and energy.
Prime Minister Carney is on a four-day visit to India, starting from the 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.