India-Canada Relations Enter New Phase with Focus on AI and Trade

India and Canada have started taking major steps towards improving relations. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar has indicated that Canada will cooperate with India in AI, trade in critical commodities, and critical minerals. Despite China's improving relations with India, China's stance on critical minerals has raised concerns in the international community. It is believed that India is considering Canada as an alternative option in the matter of critical minerals.

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand, who is visiting India, met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday morning. It is believed that the two leaders discussed strengthening bilateral relations. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar stated that India views Canada as a partner and is working with it to increase mutual investment and trust in key sectors.

Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand assumed office only a few days ago. This is her first visit to India since assuming office. However, this visit to India is considered extremely significant because just before this, India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval met with Canada's NSA. Following this, the trade and commerce ministers of both countries also met. After meetings at various levels, Anita Anand's visit to India is now being seen as a step forward towards important agreements between the two countries.

Speaking on Monday morning in the context of Anita Anand's visit to India, S. Jaishankar said that since PM Modi's meeting with the Canadian PM, it has become clear that India wants to move forward in a positive environment and views Canada as a positive partner. He added that the two countries are working together in the G20 as well as on many influential forums around the world. In such a situation, better coordination between the two countries can play a vital role in moving the world towards peace and stability.