India, Canada Hail Progress in Strengthening Bilateral Government Dialogue

NEW DELHI, Sep 2: India and Canada on Wednesday reaffirmed their commitment to completing negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by the end of 2026, as the two countries sought to build further momentum in their bilateral engagement.

The commitment was made during the annual Foreign Office Consultations (FOC), held at Hyderabad House in New Delhi between officials of India’s Ministry of External Affairs and Canada’s Global Affairs Department.

India’s delegation was headed by Secretary (East) Rudrendra Tandon, while Canada was represented by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Arun Thangaraj, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

The consultations took place amid renewed momentum in India-Canada relations, with both sides noting increased high-level exchanges and progress across several areas of cooperation since June 2025.

During the discussions, the two countries emphasised the importance of their relationship, describing it as one based on democratic values, respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity, and adherence to the rule of law.

Trade expansion remains a key priority

A major focus of the talks was the proposed CEPA, with both governments reiterating their intention to conclude negotiations before the end of the year.

The agreement is expected to provide a broader framework for economic cooperation and support the shared ambition of more than doubling bilateral trade to CAD 70 billion, equivalent to around Rs 4.65 lakh crore, by 2030.

The renewed trade push comes alongside efforts to strengthen institutional engagement between the two countries and create greater opportunities for businesses and investors.

Broader cooperation reviewed

Beyond trade, the consultations covered a wide range of bilateral issues. Officials assessed developments in energy and critical minerals, areas that have gained increasing strategic importance for both countries.

Discussions also included science and technology, education, security and defence cooperation, culture, people-to-people relations and consular matters.

Both sides welcomed the progress achieved through various institutional mechanisms and expressed support for maintaining regular dialogue between their respective governments.

The consultations underscored the effort by New Delhi and Ottawa to deepen engagement across economic, strategic and people-centric areas while maintaining a structured dialogue on issues of mutual interest.