In a significant diplomatic development, Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand announced on Monday that Canada and India are set to expedite negotiations for a comprehensive trade agreement. This move comes after two years of strained relations, marked by allegations of Indian involvement in the assassination of a Canadian Sikh activist in June 2023. The decision to revive trade talks was solidified during a meeting between Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the recent Group of 20 summit in South Africa. Anand emphasized the urgency of the process, stating, ‘The leaders were adamant that this work proceed as quickly as possible.’ Carney is scheduled to visit India early next year to further discussions. Canada, one of the world’s most trade-dependent nations, is also seeking to diversify its trade partnerships, with a goal to double non-U.S. trade over the next decade. Anand highlighted the broader context of Canada’s new foreign policy, which responds to the increasingly protectionist global economic environment. The renewed focus on India aligns with Canada’s strategy to strengthen ties with key global players, including China, with whom Carney has also taken steps to mend relations. Despite past tensions, both Canada and India are optimistic about doubling bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030. Anand also expressed Canada’s readiness to resume trade talks with the United States, acknowledging the shifting dynamics in international trade relationships.