India and Canada Forge $2.6 Billion Uranium Agreement, Target 2026 Trade Pact Completion
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
New Delhi, March 2 (NationPress) In a significant advancement in bilateral relations, India and Canada have finalized a pivotal uranium supply agreement valued at $2.6 billion. The agreement was formalized during discussions between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.
This uranium pact is set to ensure a stable long-term fuel supply for India's civil nuclear energy initiatives.
Both leaders emphasized that the agreement will enhance collaboration in clean and reliable energy sectors.
They also committed to collaborating on innovative technologies, including small modular reactors and advanced nuclear reactors.
In addition to the uranium deal, both nations agreed to expedite negotiations for a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
Carney expressed optimism, stating that both countries aim to finalize this trade agreement by the close of 2026. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the ambition to elevate bilateral trade to $50 billion by 2030, thereby fostering greater investment and job creation in both countries.
During this visit, several Memorandums of Understanding were also exchanged. These agreements focused on cooperation in critical minerals, renewable energy promotion, and cultural exchanges.
The agreements were signed by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand in the presence of both prime ministers.
Further, both sides established terms of reference for the Comprehensive Economic Partnership and signed an agreement to bolster cooperation in the critical minerals sector. This partnership aims to establish robust and dependable supply chains for the future.
Prime Minister Modi commended Carney for revitalizing India-Canada relations.
“Both nations uphold strong democratic principles, embrace diversity, and are devoted to enhancing global welfare,” PM Modi remarked.
“The discussions centered on transforming these shared values into a more profound and advanced partnership,” he added.
The two leaders also broadened their cooperation in renewable energy and climate action. PM Modi welcomed Canada's participation in the International Solar Alliance and the Global Biofuel Alliance.
On the subject of technology and innovation, PM Modi stated that India and Canada are natural allies. He underscored the growing collaboration in areas like artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, supercomputing, and semiconductors.