New Delhi, Oct 13 (NationPress) External Affairs Minister (EAM) S. Jaishankar remarked on Monday that the relationship between India and Canada has been consistently improving over the last few months, with both nations actively working to re-establish the frameworks necessary to enhance this partnership.

During his introductory comments at the meeting with his Canadian counterpart, Anita Anand, in New Delhi, EAM Jaishankar reflected on the recent interactions between New Delhi and Ottawa, which included discussions between National Security Advisers and trade ministers.

As he welcomed Anand on her inaugural visit to India as Canada’s Foreign Minister, Jaishankar stated, "India-Canada bilateral relations have shown consistent progress in recent months. We are focused on revitalizing the mechanisms essential for advancing our collaboration."

"As Prime Minister Modi highlighted during his discussion with Prime Minister Carney in Kananaskis, India's strategy is to advance with optimism. This morning, you had the opportunity to meet the Prime Minister, where you gained insights into our vision for collaboration and how to best achieve it," he added.

He also mentioned the "constructive" meeting between National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and Canadian NSA Nathalie G. Drouin, labeling it as "a crucial initial step towards strengthening our security cooperation."

"Our foreign ministries, at the level of secretary and deputy minister, convened on September 19 to evaluate the overall relationship. Recent discussions occurred between our trade ministers on October 11. Thus, when we examine Canada, we perceive a complementary economy, an open society, and a foundation of diversity and pluralism, which we believe is essential for a close, sustainable, and long-term cooperative framework," he noted.

He emphasized that India and Canada have developed an ambitious roadmap to enhance cooperation across various sectors, including science and technology, civil nuclear collaboration, artificial intelligence, trade, and agriculture.

"I am pleased that the two high commissioners have commenced their roles in our respective capitals and are integral to today’s meeting. This is our high commissioner with whom you have engaged," the EAM added.

"As foreign ministers, it is our duty to guide the process of rebuilding our cooperation, ensuring it meets the expectations of our prime ministers and the interests of our citizens. This entails not only spearheading initiatives within our jurisdictions but also overseeing and integrating interactions across the entire spectrum of government. I look forward to collaborating closely with you, Minister," he remarked.

Jaishankar highlighted that India and Canada share a tradition of active participation in global affairs, including the G20 and the Commonwealth.

"Our common interests in the Indo-Pacific are significant. We are staunch advocates for effective multilateralism, climate action, and the SDG Agenda 2030. We aim to mitigate risks to the global economy by establishing robust partnerships of increasing range and depth. Your visit, Minister Anand, presents a chance to assess the global situation and share perspectives," he stated.

This visit comes months after Prime Minister Narendra Modi met his Canadian counterpart Mark Carney in June during the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, focusing on rejuvenating strained relations.

The meeting highlighted the mutual desire to reset the India-Canada relationship, which has encountered recent challenges.

This renewed engagement was complemented by the appointment of new High Commissioners — Christopher Cooter as Canada’s envoy to New Delhi and Dinesh K. Patnaik as India’s High Commissioner to Ottawa.