Piyush Goyal, Mark Carney Hold Talks to Boost India–Canada Bilateral Ties

India and Canada have signalled a major push to reset strained relations, with Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal holding high-level talks with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney during his visit to Canada.

The discussions come as both countries work to rebuild trust and revive trade engagement that was disrupted following the 2023 killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada , which triggered a sharp diplomatic downturn. India has consistently denied allegations linked to the case.

Goyal said the current phase marks a “complete reset” of India–Canada relations , adding that Carney’s earlier visit to India in February 2026 had “completely changed the way both countries viewed each other” and created momentum for renewed cooperation.

During that visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mark Carney agreed on multiple areas of cooperation, including a CAD 2.6 billion uranium supply agreement and expanded engagement in critical minerals, clean energy and advanced technologies .

In Ottawa, Goyal also met Canada’s International Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu and senior business leaders. He is leading a large Indian business delegation of over 100–150 industry representatives , the biggest of its kind, covering sectors such as mining, aerospace, automotive, energy and manufacturing.

Both sides have now resumed negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) , which aims to revive and accelerate long-stalled trade talks. Officials are targeting a free trade agreement by the end of 2026 , after discussions were suspended in 2023.

Goyal said the renewed engagement reflects a rapid improvement in economic ties , with both countries focused on expanding trade, investment flows and supply chain cooperation. India is seeking greater access for exports in textiles, leather and pharmaceuticals , while Canada is pushing for opportunities in critical minerals, uranium and energy resources .

Both countries have also reiterated their long-term goal of doubling or tripling bilateral trade toward USD 50 billion by 2030 .

Canadian officials, including Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand, have also participated in discussions with the Indian delegation, along with CEOs, start-ups and pension fund representatives.

Despite past tensions, both governments now describe the relationship as entering a pragmatic phase of economic rebuilding and strategic engagement , with a strong focus on trade, energy and technology cooperation.