Mark Carney India Visit: PM Modi, Canadian PM Discuss Trade, Energy and Strategic Reset

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney began his official visit to India with high-level diplomatic engagements aimed at strengthening India-Canada relations. He held talks with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi for bilateral discussions focused on trade, energy, critical technologies and strategic cooperation.

The visit marks an important step in efforts by both countries to rebuild ties after diplomatic tensions that emerged in 2023. Relations had deteriorated following allegations made by former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India had strongly rejected the claims, calling them baseless. The diplomatic dispute led to the recall and expulsion of senior diplomats from both sides.

However, after Mark Carney’s electoral victory last year, both governments initiated steps to restore engagement. High commissioners were reinstated, and communication channels were reopened. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Kananaskis for the G7 summit in 2025 also helped in restarting dialogue between the two nations.

During the current visit, discussions are expected to focus on expanding economic cooperation. Canada is negotiating a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with India. Mark Carney has stated that both countries aim to double two-way trade by 2030, with the agreement likely to be signed by the end of this year.

Energy security is another major agenda item. India is exploring civil nuclear cooperation with Canada, particularly in securing uranium supplies to meet its growing energy demand. Canada, known for its strong energy and technology sectors, sees India as a key partner in a rapidly changing global economic environment.

Global trade uncertainties, including tariff-related challenges involving the United States, have pushed Ottawa to diversify its trade partnerships. Strengthening economic engagement with India is being seen as a strategic move.

In addition to economic discussions, the leaders are also expected to exchange views on the evolving geopolitical situation, including developments in the Middle East. With rising tensions in the region, diplomatic coordination between major democracies is considered crucial.

Mark Carney will also participate in the India-Canada CEOs’ Forum, aimed at enhancing business partnerships and encouraging private sector collaboration in technology, clean energy and services.

Officials describe the current round of talks as a “forward-looking reset” designed to rebuild trust and unlock new opportunities in trade, innovation and security cooperation.