Washington, February 14: India’s High Commissioner to Canada, Dinesh Patnaik, has stated that the relationship between India and Canada has significantly improved and is progressing in the right direction. He expressed confidence that discussions regarding the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) could commence within weeks and be finalized swiftly.
In an interview with the Financial Post, Patnaik remarked, “The current state of our relationship is very good. Considering our history over the past two years, it couldn’t be better.” He noted that the relationship strengthened further after Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney during the G7 summit in Kananaskis.
Patnaik highlighted the appointments of High Commissioners and several ministerial visits, which included delegations from foreign affairs, trade, and energy. He stated, “Numerous meetings have taken place, all aimed at making up for lost time.” Discussions have spanned various areas, including national security, law enforcement, mining, energy, education, and artificial intelligence.
He emphasized that the relationship is not just back on track but is advancing robustly, with a high-level Canadian visit anticipated soon to solidify the progress made thus far.
Regarding the CEPA, Patnaik mentioned that finalizing the agreement should not be difficult. During the G20 summit, both Prime Ministers decided to initiate talks. The Canadian Parliament has been notified 90 days in advance, and discussions are expected to begin by the end of February or early March.
Patnaik noted that India’s economic position is much stronger now compared to previous years. India is the world’s fourth-largest economy and is poised to move to third place. In recent years, India has signed trade agreements with several countries and groups.
He emphasized India’s recent trade deals with the European Free Trade Association, the European Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, and the UAE, stating, “We have made progress on many issues that we previously resisted.”
He also pointed out that both India and Canada are democratic nations with the rule of law, press freedom, and market-based economies. Their interests align on various international platforms, including the United Nations, G7, and G20. The CEPA aims to facilitate trade and investment between the two countries.
Patnaik described the agreement as a means for both sides to collaboratively address mutual challenges and move forward together. Additionally, it aims to strengthen parliamentary exchanges and connections among different sectors of society.
He concluded, “Despite minor issues over the past two years, our people-to-people relationships have remained unaffected. Trade has increased. Financial institutions have performed well. Academic institutions have thrived. Universities, students, and research have not stalled.”
India and Canada have long-standing strong ties in education, trade, and the Indian diaspora. A significant number of people of Indian origin reside in Canada. Although tensions had risen in recent years due to security-related allegations, both governments are now working towards stabilizing and strengthening their relations.
Leave a Comment