Canada Minister Pledges Support for Strengthening Business Ties with India

18 Oct, 2024

Amidst a significant diplomatic row between India and Canada, the Canadian Trade Minister has reaffirmed the government's commitment to supporting the robust commercial ties between the two nations. Mary Ng, the Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic Development, made these remarks on Tuesday as tensions escalated following accusations from Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau against the Indian government, alleging involvement in criminal activities targeting Canadian citizens.

In response to the heightened diplomatic tensions, India expelled six Canadian diplomats and recalled its High Commissioner along with five other diplomats from Ottawa. Conversely, Canada reported that Indian diplomats were also expelled amid the escalating situation. Ng emphasized the Canadian government’s openness to dialogue with India and reiterated the importance of maintaining the valued relationship between the two countries.

"I want to reassure our business community that our government remains fully committed to supporting the well-established commercial ties between Canada and India," Ng stated. She highlighted that the Trade Commissioner Service would continue to assist Canadian companies operating in India, despite the ongoing diplomatic tensions. Ng made it clear that Canada stands firmly behind its businesses and will work closely with all Canadian enterprises engaged with India to ensure these vital economic connections remain strong.

While the government acknowledges the need to protect Canadians and uphold the rule of law, Ng urged India to respect the principles of law and justice that guide Canada’s actions. She expressed hope for a future dialogue with India to sustain the mutual economic interests of both nations.

According to the India Brand Equity Foundation, the bilateral trade relationship between Canada and India reached $8.27 billion in fiscal year 2022-23. In 2022, India ranked as Canada’s ninth-largest trading partner in the Indo-Pacific region. Major exports from India to Canada included pharmaceuticals and electrical machinery, while Canada exported significant amounts of petroleum products and edible vegetables to India. With over 600 Canadian companies operating in India and significant Canadian investments in the region, the commercial relationship between these countries remains crucial despite recent diplomatic challenges.

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