New Delhi, 02 March (H.S.): Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced Monday that India and Canada will soon finalize their Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), targeting $50 billion in bilateral trade by 2030.

Addressing the India-Canada CEO Forum,PM Modi described both as vibrant democracies, major economies, and value-aligned societies. Democracy, diversity, and development inspire us as natural partners, he said.

India, the world's fastest-growing major economy, is fueled by robust domestic demand, youthful demographics, massive investments, and digital prowess—its relentless Reform Express.

Policy simplification, PLI schemes, logistics upgrades, tax/insolvency reforms enhance ease of doing business.The Union Budget allocates a record $130 billion for infrastructure; the $1.3 trillion National Infrastructure Pipeline advances apace.

Canadian pension funds have invested ~$100 billion, signaling deep trust—Modi invited Canadian industry to join India's infra surge.

Five Priority Pillars

Clean Energy: Civil nuclear cooperation, long-term uranium supply sealed; critical minerals chains fortified; Canada’s innovation + India’s scale for batteries/storage.

AI: Joint AI Compute Corridor, Startup Innovation Sandbox.

Manufacturing/Tech: Electronics, aerospace, engineering—blending Canadian tech with Indian scale for global value chains.

Food Processing: Mega parks, cold chains, testing labs as new frontiers.

Subnational Ties: Extend beyond capitals to states/provinces.

PM Modi invoked T20 cricket—quick decisions, bold partnerships—to shape the future. Amid global headwinds, like-minded allies like Canada are vital. Carney's positivity heralds a new chapter.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar