New Delhi, March 3 (NationPress) The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC) has expressed enthusiasm regarding the enhanced relationship between India and Canada, particularly with the revival of discussions surrounding a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This agreement is anticipated to significantly elevate apparel exports to Canada.

Dr. A. Sakthivel, the Chairman of AEPC, mentioned that the implementation of CEPA could potentially double exports to Canada within the next three years, while also generating substantial investment and employment opportunities.

This comprehensive trade framework aims to serve as a pivotal foundation for expanding bilateral trade and revitalizing investments, leveraging economic synergies, he added.

At present, apparel exports to Canada are valued at $250 million.

AEPC also acknowledged the visit of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who spoke at the CEO's Forum alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi, reaffirming a mutual commitment to enhance bilateral economic cooperation and pursue a beneficial CEPA.

"This partnership presents a remarkable opportunity for sustainable energy production, positioning India as an ethical and responsible sourcing destination," stated Sakthivel.

The strengthened relationship is expected to facilitate technology transfers and research and development collaborations, including advancements in AI and automation, which will aid the industry in scaling production and adhering to global compliance standards, according to the industry association. Both leaders emphasized the importance of skills development and talent mobility in fostering people-to-people connections between India and Canada, as noted by the AEPC Chairman.

In a recent announcement in New Delhi, Canada and India unveiled a "Strategic Energy Partnership," which will see Canadian firm Cameco supplying approximately 22 million pounds of uranium from 2027 until 2035 to support India's civil nuclear reactors.

Furthermore, the Canadian government is linking CEPA to a target of more than doubling two-way trade to $70 billion by 2030, as highlighted in a recent report.

PM Modi and his Canadian counterpart discussed revitalizing diplomatic staffing levels in both nations to their former capacity, as stated in an official announcement.

Since Carney's ascent to the position of Canadian PM, several calculated measures have been taken to restore India-Canada relations, including the appointment of Dinesh K Patnaik as the Indian High Commissioner to Canada.

aar/na