India and Canada have agreed to deepen bilateral cooperation by launching negotiations on a General Security of Information Agreement (GSOIA) and accelerating efforts to finalize the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2026. The decisions were announced following talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in France.
A key outcome of the meeting was the decision to begin discussions on the GSOIA, a framework that facilitates the secure exchange and protection of classified information between governments. The agreement is expected to strengthen cooperation in defense, security, intelligence sharing, and strategic planning.
The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to conclude the CEPA negotiations in 2026. The proposed trade agreement aims to enhance market access, reduce trade barriers, boost investments, and expand economic cooperation between the two countries. Both sides expressed confidence that the agreement would create new opportunities for businesses and strengthen supply chain resilience.
India and Canada further discussed collaboration in critical sectors such as liquefied natural gas (LNG), liquefied petroleum gas (LPG), metallurgical coal, critical minerals, and energy security. Cooperation in science and technology, innovation, education, research, and skilled mobility was also highlighted as an important pillar of the growing partnership.
Additionally, India expressed support for Canada’s bid to become a Dialogue Partner of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA), reflecting the increasing strategic engagement between the two nations in the Indo-Pacific region.
The renewed momentum in India-Canada relations is expected to strengthen trade, security, technology partnerships, and people-to-people ties in the coming years.
