New Delhi, Oct 13 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S Jaishankar and his Canadian counterpart Anita Anand engaged in discussions in New Delhi on Monday focused on the necessity to revitalize and enhance the frameworks essential for strengthening bilateral ties. The two officials reached an agreement on a comprehensive cooperation roadmap aimed at improving India-Canada relations.

A joint statement issued following their dialogue emphasized that, aligned with the priorities set by the Prime Ministers of India and Canada to energize their relationship, both parties have established a ‘New Roadmap’ for India-Canada relations based on mutual respect for democratic values, rule of law, and a commitment to uphold the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The Ministers acknowledged that amidst ongoing global economic uncertainties and escalating geopolitical tensions, a robust India-Canada bilateral relationship is vital.

“Reviving this partnership will not only create opportunities for increased economic cooperation but will also aid in addressing vulnerabilities stemming from shifting global alliances, guarantee more dependable supply chains, and reinforce strategic stability in a complex international landscape,” the statement noted.

Both ministers expressed contentment over the surge in bilateral trade, which hit USD 23.66 billion in 2024, and the growing presence of Indian and Canadian businesses in each other's markets, generating jobs with considerable potential for future advancement.

The two leaders also recognized the significant contributions of Canadian provinces, six of which have representation in India, along with Indian states, in promoting mutually beneficial economic collaboration. They pledged to work closely and instructed their teams to initiate the necessary steps for implementing the agreed roadmap. The countries also agreed to enhance bilateral cooperation in climate action, environmental conservation, and protection.

As per the India-Canada joint statement, EAM Jaishankar and Anand committed to collaborate by sharing information and expertise while supporting each other's climate ambitions in areas such as renewable energy capacity, decarbonizing heavy industries, reducing plastic pollution, and ensuring sustainable consumption. Both sides also agreed to deepen partnerships to explore new frontiers in science and technology, including AI and digital infrastructure.

The joint statement reflected on the importance of people-to-people connections in fostering mutual understanding and building long-term collaborations, stating that both sides would boost cooperation in education, tourism, cultural exchange, and professional mobility. Initial initiatives will encompass enhanced collaboration in higher education and research, with a focus on emerging technologies like AI, cybersecurity, and fintech, as well as increasing Canadian academic presence in India through overseas campuses. A revitalized Joint Working Group on Higher Education will further expand Canada-India academic networks and institutional connections.

The two leaders committed to enhancing collaboration on global issues, emphasizing the need for more effective and inclusive multilateral institutions. Following their discussions in New Delhi, Jaishankar mentioned that he and Anita Anand reviewed global developments and their responses to shared challenges.

“I am pleased to welcome FM Anita Anand of Canada today in New Delhi. We had productive discussions aimed at revitalizing the necessary mechanisms to advance our partnership. We also shared views on global developments and how we can respond to mutual challenges. Additionally, we agreed on an ambitious cooperation roadmap and to oversee the reconstruction of our cooperation to meet the expectations of our leaders and serve the interests of our people,” Jaishankar posted on X following the meeting.