Canadian High Commissioner Christopher Cooter has expressed strong confidence that India and Canada are on the verge of finalizing a significant trade agreement. The announcement comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's anticipated visit next month, marking a pivotal moment in the evolving bilateral relationship.
Trade Pact Nears Completion Amidst Sixth Round of Talks
Speaking to The Times of India, High Commissioner Cooter indicated that negotiations are rapidly approaching their conclusion as the sixth round of trade talks draws to a close. While acknowledging that the formal ratification process will require time, involving Canadian provincial governments, he affirmed that the core agreement's final text is within reach.
"The actual ratification would take some time because we have provincial governments that are involved as well. But I think we can be pretty confident that the final text will be there," Cooter stated, adding, "We're also looking at some subsidiary agreements that would facilitate business travel."
Beyond a Reset: Strengthening Bilateral Ties
Cooter described the recent trajectory of India-Canada relations as far exceeding a simple diplomatic "reset" since Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney assumed office. He noted that initial approaches were tentative, but ties have strengthened considerably.
Beyond the trade agreement and mobility, several other "big-ticket announcements" are expected during PM Modi's visit. These include major collaborations in the burgeoning space sector, highlighting a broader scope of cooperation between the two nations.
Addressing Concerns for Indian International Students
The High Commissioner also addressed widespread anxieties among Indian students regarding Canada's international student policies. With roughly 300,000 Indian students in Canada, Cooter clarified that Ottawa's regulatory caps are specifically designed to weed out fraudulent institutions, not to restrict genuine applicants.
He emphasized that these caps are currently far from being met, presenting a potentially opportune moment for prospective Indian students. "This was a misperception. In fact, the caps are nowhere near being met. This is probably the best time ever, if you're a prospective Indian student," Cooter explained.