The recently held ‘India-Canada Strategic Dialogue’ had the Foreign Ministers of both countries convening before the G20 Foreign ministers’ meeting in March in New Delhi. This bilateral dialogue strived to strengthen the economic partnership, advance security cooperation, facilitate migration and mobility, and grow people-to-people ties between the two nations.
Highlights of the Meeting
The Canadian Foreign Minister identified India as a critical partner for Canada in the Indo-Pacific region, promising that in return, Canada can be a reliable supplier of critical minerals, an influential partner in the green transition, and a major investor.
The Significance of the Bilateral Meeting
This visit by the Canadian Foreign Minister is anticipated to enable a renewed start to India-Canada relations post a freeze period from 2020-2022. The freeze was attributed to several factors including attacks on Indian-origin people by Khalistani groups in Canada, Canadian commentary over India’s farmer protests, and India’s corresponding cancellation of diplomatic talks.
The dialogue also emphasized the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA) and the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), indicating a robust economic collaboration.
Canada’s Indo Pacific Policy
Recently, Canada released a fresh Indo-Pacific strategy, directing its attention on China, India, the North Pacific, and ASEAN regions. The strategy includes emphasis on China’s challenge to international rules and human rights, and applauds India’s democratic tradition. The plan also acknowledges Canada’s reliance on China for exports and the necessity for cooperation on climate change and health issues.
India- Canada Relations
Politically, India and Canada share common parliamentary structures and procedures. Over 400 Canadian companies operate in India, and more than 1,000 companies are active in the Indian market. The trade dynamics between Canada and India were valued at $6.4 billion in 2020.
Scientific Collaborations
There’s a significant focus on promoting Industrial R&D and the creation of new IP processes, prototypes, or products. Joint research projects are implemented under the IC-IMPACTS program in healthcare, agri-biotech, and waste management.
Defense and Security Cooperation
India and Canada have close collaborations particularly through the UN, Commonwealth, and G-20. Security cooperation was further boosted by the Framework for Cooperation on Countering Terrorism in 2018.
Key Facts about Canada
Canada is the world’s second-largest country in terms of area, constituting about two-fifths of North America. It is a constitutional monarchy and a parliamentary democracy. The border with the United States primarily follows the 49th parallel north.
UPSC Civil Services Examination: A Previous Year Question
A previous year’s question asked which country has the world’s largest uranium reserves. The answer is Australia, according to OECD-NEA/IAEA, World Nuclear Association data.