Canada PM Mark Carney to hold wide-ranging talks with PM Modi in Delhi on trade, energy and strategic ties

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi as part of his first official visit to India, with discussions expected to cover bilateral trade, investment, energy cooperation and deeper strategic ties between the two countries.

Carney’s visit, scheduled to include engagements with government leaders, industry representatives and business forums, comes at a time when both nations are seeking to strengthen economic relations and explore new avenues for cooperation. Sources said discussions will likely span a range of areas including trade facilitation, critical minerals, clean energy and technology partnerships.

One of the key priorities for India and Canada during the visit will be enhancing bilateral trade and advancing negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Officials from both countries have previously highlighted the potential benefits of a CEPA in boosting market access and investment flows, particularly in goods and services.

Trade between India and Canada has grown significantly over recent years, with a noticeable uptick in both imports and exports. Discussions during the visit are expected to build on this trend and explore ways to address trade barriers, streamline regulatory processes and expand cooperation in key sectors.

Energy cooperation is likely to be high on the agenda, with Canadian officials expected to explore opportunities for increased energy exports to India, including oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG), as well as collaboration on clean energy initiatives. Both countries have signalled interest in broadening their energy partnership as part of efforts to diversify supply sources and enhance energy security.

Critical minerals, which are essential for technologies such as batteries and renewable energy applications, are also expected to feature in discussions. Canada is a key producer of several critical minerals that India needs for its manufacturing and clean energy transitions.

Aside from trade and energy, cooperation in technology and education sectors is likely to be highlighted during Carney’s engagements in Delhi.

India and Canada have previously participated in joint research and academic exchange programmes, and officials see further scope for collaboration in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), innovation ecosystems and skill development.

Carney is also expected to interact with business leaders and industry associations to promote investment opportunities and foster private-sector linkages between Indian and Canadian firms. These interactions are aimed at translating high-level dialogue into real economic partnerships and follow-on activity.