Global Affairs Canada has provided clarification regarding reports from India suggesting a potential resumption of bilateral trade negotiations between the two nations, following a diplomatic strain stemming from the assassination of a Canadian Sikh leader on Canadian soil two years ago.
India’s Ministry of External Affairs released a statement indicating that David Morrison, the Deputy Minister of Global Affairs in Canada, engaged in discussions with his Indian counterpart and separately met with Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. The statement highlighted a mutual agreement to kickstart dialogues across various sectors, including trade, defense, energy, civil nuclear cooperation, security, law enforcement, critical minerals, space, science and technology, and agriculture. Both sides pledged to address capacity-related issues at their respective missions and consulates to enhance economic opportunities.
Media reports in India portrayed this agreement as an initial step toward reigniting trade talks. However, in response to inquiries from CBC News, the Canadian government clarified that while trade was a topic of discussion, formal negotiations for a free trade agreement have not been initiated under the new government mandate. Global Affairs Canada emphasized its commitment to nurturing and expanding the well-established commercial ties between Canada and India.
The Canadian government’s statement did not confirm or elaborate on the consultations led by Deputy Minister Morrison, as mentioned by India’s Ministry of External Affairs. Instead, reference was made to a statement from Nathalie Drouin, the Prime Minister’s National Security and Intelligence Advisor, who disclosed her recent discussions with her Indian counterpart on security concerns and mutual non-interference commitments.
The ongoing and constructive dialogue between Canada and India has seen progress, building on the groundwork laid during the meeting between Prime Minister Mark Carney and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the G7 Summit last year. This positive trajectory comes after a diplomatic rift triggered by the murder of Nijjar and subsequent conflicting statements between the two governments.
Efforts to mend relations gained momentum post the G7 Summit, culminating in the appointment of new high commissioners and a reestablishment of normal services for citizens and businesses at their respective missions. While trade discussions were not explicitly mentioned in the Canadian readout, Indian sources indicated discussions on restarting negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
In late August, Canada named Christopher Cooter as its new high commissioner to India, reciprocated by India appointing Dinesh Patnaik as the new high commissioner to Canada, signaling a positive step towards bolstering ties between the two countries.