Prime Minister Mark Carney is in India on a pivotal trip aimed at repairing ties with the world's largest democracy, as both countries seek to reduce trade reliance on the US.

Carney began his visit in Mumbai, meeting with business leaders, and will travel to New Delhi for talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

The trip marks a significant turnaround in relations, which deteriorated after Canada accused India of involvement in the extrajudicial killing of Canadian Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2023 – an allegation India strongly denied.

Both sides now appear ready to move forward.

For Carney, this visit is strictly business-oriented, aligning with his goal of diversifying Canada's trade partners to lessen economic dependence on the US.

A key focus will be advancing a comprehensive free trade agreement with India, discussions for which have been ongoing intermittently for 15 years.

Trade talks were derailed after former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly accused India in 2023. India has repeatedly denied any involvement.

Facing US tariffs and under Carney's more pragmatic foreign policy, Ottawa is now mending ties with Delhi.

However, the allegations remain a point of contention for some in Canada's Sikh community, who criticize Carney for prioritizing economic interests over safety concerns.

Canadian officials stated ahead of the trip that India is not currently linked to violent crimes or threats on Canadian soil.

Carney will only visit Mumbai and New Delhi, skipping cultural sites like the Taj Mahal or Punjab, signaling Canada's focus is squarely on trade.

Discussions will cover energy, technology, artificial intelligence, defense, and attracting talent to Canada. Carney and Modi may also address tariff policies enacted by former US President Donald Trump.

Canada remains the only G7 country without a preferential trade agreement with India, adding urgency for Carney.

Source: www.bbc.com