New Delhi / Mumbai, March 2, 2026 — Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney wrapped up a landmark official visit to India this week with renewed pledges to deepen cooperation between the two democracies and push for stronger economic, security, and strategic ties.
During talks with Narendra Modi in New Delhi on Monday, Carney underscored that India and Canada are connected by shared democratic values and expressed his commitment to “adding more vigour” to bilateral relations — a message echoed by both leaders as they sought to reset ties that had been strained in recent years.
In a major development, both countries announced progress toward a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), with plans to finalise it by the end of 2026. Carney said the pact aims to double two‑way trade by 2030, reflecting ambitions to expand economic linkages beyond historical levels.
Prime Minister Modi highlighted that bilateral trade currently stands far below potential, and both sides set a target of reaching US $50 billion in trade by 2030.
Alongside economic talks, leaders agreed to bolster cooperation in defence and security. They announced the establishment of a new India–Canada Defence Dialogue, aimed at enhancing military exchanges, maritime domain awareness, and defence‑industry collaboration.
The renewed focus on strategy and security reflects a shared interest in stability amid broader global uncertainties, with both capitals signalling a more pragmatic and forward‑looking phase of engagement.
As part of the visit, India and Canada sealed a US $2.6 billion uranium supply agreement, which both sides framed as a cornerstone for clean energy collaboration and long‑term energy security. The deal will help support India’s nuclear energy programme while deepening commercial ties.
Canadian officials also discussed partnerships in technology, critical minerals, and artificial intelligence, emphasising complementarities between the two economies.
The trip comes after a period of diplomatic tension between Ottawa and New Delhi, marked by disagreements and mutual complaints in previous years. Carney’s visit — the first official by a Canadian prime minister to India since he took office — is being widely interpreted by analysts as a reset aimed at moving past historic mistrust and focusing on mutual interests.
Both sides have said they want to anchor their renewed partnership in shared democratic principles, respect for the rule of law, and strong people‑to‑people links. These values are now being cited by leaders as the basis for a more productive and expansive agenda in the years ahead.
