Canada-India Trade Talks Gain Momentum Amid Energy Sector Focus

Canada and India are making progress on their trade talks, with Canadian Trade Minister Maninder Sidhu expressing optimism that a comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA) will be concluded by year-end.

Sidhu's comments come after Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said in March that the two countries aimed to agree on a free trade pact by the end of 2023. The Indian trade negotiators are set to visit Canada next month, and leaders from both countries may meet on the sidelines of the G-20 gathering in December.

One key area of discussion is the energy sector, where Canada has significant resources. Shell-led LNG export facility was launched last year, and five more projects are in various phases of development.

Sidhu noted that Canadian companies are exploring ways to supply Indian firms with liquefied natural gas (LNG), and India is also looking to expand cooperation in nuclear energy.