The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, this week, spoke with Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India's External Affairs Minister.
The ministers underscored the long-standing friendship of the two countries, built on strong commercial, cultural and people-to-people ties. The 1.4 million Canadians who claim Indian heritage form a deep bond between the two countries.
The ministers discussed Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the need for the international community to come together to restore global peace and security. They also discussed the broader impacts of the conflict, including on global food security.
The ministers emphasized areas of future collaboration such as tackling climate change, working towards a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, expanding the Canada-India Air Transport Agreement and creating opportunities for growth and ensure prosperity and a sustainable future. They affirmed the importance of a free and open Indo-Pacific region that is founded on respect for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations.
Ministers Joly and Jaishankar also discussed human rights and the importance of empowering fellow democracies. Human rights, diversity, and inclusion are at the core of Canada's foreign policy; their importance is reflected in all of our discussions with international partners.
The ministers agreed to deepen cooperation in all facets of the bilateral relationship between Canada and India and look forward to meeting in person at the earliest opportunity.
