Hello Mumbai International Desk
Honourable Prime Minister Mark Carney
80 Wellington Street
Ottawa, ON K1A 0A2
Subject: Humble request to restart Free Trade negotiations with India
Dear Prime Minister Carney,
Greetings from Winnipeg, Canada. For more than five decades, I have devoted myself to building bridges of trade and friendship between Canada and India. I write to you today with a humble but heartfelt request—to restart negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement with India.
The world today is uncertain, with global powers challenging the sovereignty of independent nations. At such a time, Canada must look to strong, reliable partners. Few nations share as many bonds of history, values, and goodwill with us as India does. Canadians and Indians have always held each other in deep affection, and I truly believe this is the moment to transform that goodwill into lasting progress.
Why now matters:
India’s global influence is rising rapidly—it is a key member of BRICS and the SCO, and home to 1.4 billion people.
Talks paused in 2023, but today the urgency is greater than ever, especially with U.S. tariffs hurting Canadian workers, farmers, and manufacturers.
Canada’s strengths in agriculture and resources perfectly complement India’s strengths in technology and services. Together, we can create growth that uplifts families in both countries.
Other nations, such as Australia, have already signed trade agreements with India. Canada must not lag behind. By deepening our ties with India, we would be sending a clear message to the world: Canada is forward-looking, confident, and ready to seize opportunities for its people.
Prime Minister, the groundwork already exists—through cultural ties, ministerial visits, and decades of goodwill. What is needed now is the political courage to finish what was started. I am certain that if Canada takes one step, India will take two towards finalising an agreement. Such a partnership will not only strengthen our economies but also touch lives—whether it is a Canadian farmer selling wheat, a manufacturer finding new markets, or a young professional working with India’s growing IT sector.
With utmost respect, I appeal to you to take this decisive step. For the people of Canada, for the people of India, and for a stronger future built together.
Respectfully,
Hemant M. Shah
Canada–India Trade Champion (40+ years)
Trade Director, Overseas Friends of India in Canada, Ottawa 🇨🇦🇮🇳
