Stories
India Considers Inviting Canada PM Mark Carney As Republic Day Chief Guest Amid Trade Talks
- •India is reportedly considering Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney as the chief guest for the Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2027.
- •The potential invitation depends on both countries successfully concluding a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement by December.
- •India and Canada are currently undergoing their fifth round of trade negotiations for the CEPA, with teams actively advancing discussions.
- •Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Canada in December, which could mark his first bilateral trip to the country in a decade.
- •Bilateral relations have gained positive momentum since Carney became prime minister, highlighted by cooperation in critical minerals, energy supplies, and defense.
Key Questions Answered
India's potential invitation to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney for the Republic Day celebrations on January 26, 2027, is currently at an early stage. The final decision depends on both countries successfully concluding the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) negotiations by December.
India and Canada have completed four rounds of negotiations for the CEPA, and the fifth round is currently underway with an Indian negotiating team present in Ottawa since October 5. Both nations share an objective to conclude the agreement before the end of the year.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi last visited Canada on a bilateral trip in 2016, when Stephen Harper was the prime minister. A planned trip to Canada in December could mark Modi's first bilateral visit to the country in a decade.
