Modi and Carney Discuss Trade Agreement Amid Diplomatic Talks
Prime Minister Modi emphasizes India and Canada's role in global stability following a call with Canadian PM Carney.
Modi and Carney agree to expedite a trade agreement.
Canadian ministers are in Delhi for strategic discussions.
India aims to double trade with Canada to $23 billion by 2030.
In a significant diplomatic engagement, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on October 13, 2026, highlighting the collaborative efforts of both nations towards fostering a more stable and prosperous global environment. The conversation took place as senior Canadian officials, including Foreign Minister Anita Anand, were in Delhi to discuss various strategic matters, including preparations for Modi's upcoming visit to Canada in December.
The discussions come on the heels of a series of meetings aimed at strengthening ties between India and Canada, particularly after a period of strained relations from 2023 to 2025. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval recently met with Canadian advisor David Morrison to explore cooperation in security and law enforcement, although the sensitive topic of the Nijjar case was notably absent from their discussions.
During the call, Modi described the dialogue with Carney as “warm and productive,” emphasizing the need to build on the positive momentum in bilateral relations. Both leaders expressed their commitment to advancing the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations, aiming for a swift conclusion to enhance trade, which is projected to reach $23 billion by 2030.
The implications of these talks extend beyond trade, as both leaders acknowledged the geopolitical challenges facing the Indo-Pacific region. They discussed the importance of trusted partnerships in energy and agriculture, with Carney commending Modi for his efforts in seeking peaceful resolutions to global conflicts, including the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Looking ahead, the two nations are expected to announce the trade agreement during Modi's visit to Canada in mid-December. This visit marks a significant milestone, being Modi's first bilateral trip to Canada in over a decade, reflecting a renewed commitment to strengthening ties that had previously been strained under the former Trudeau administration.
