New Delhi [India], October 13 (ANI): External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Monday held “constructive discussions” with visiting Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand to strengthen and rejuvenate the partnership between India and Canada. The two leaders also exchanged views on global developments and agreed on an “ambitious cooperation roadmap.”
In a post on X, Jaishankar said, “Delighted to welcome FM Anita Anand of Canada today in New Delhi. Had constructive discussions to restore and reinvigorate the mechanisms necessary to advance our partnership. Also exchanged views on global developments and our responses to shared challenges.”
He added, “We also agreed on an ambitious cooperation roadmap. And to shepherd the process of rebuilding our cooperation so that it delivers on the expectation of our leaders and the interests of our people.”
Jaishankar held bilateral talks with Anand, who is on her first official visit to India after taking office as Canada’s new Foreign Minister. He emphasized the importance of strong international partnerships, stating, “We seek to de-risk the international economy today by forging strong partnerships of growing range and depth. Your visit, Ms. Anand, affords an opportunity to review the global scenario and exchange perspectives.”
The visit comes amid efforts to improve diplomatic ties and rebuild trust following recent tensions. Jaishankar referenced Prime Minister Modi’s earlier meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney at the G7 summit in Kananaskis, noting India’s commitment to moving forward with a positive approach.
Earlier in the day, Anand also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi. In a post on X, she said, “Building on the momentum of Prime Minister Mark Carney’s meeting with PM Modi this summer at the G7 Summit, Canada and India are elevating the relationship between our countries, while maintaining our law enforcement and security dialogue and expanding our economic relationship.”
Anand expressed appreciation for the warm welcome in India and reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to advancing bilateral relations in both the present and long term, particularly concerning shared priorities in the Indo-Pacific region. She stated, “Both of our governments agree on the importance of elevating the relationship going further. The joint statement will discuss our mutual plans for re-engagement and inform Canadians and Indians alike that we are collectively committed to advancing this relationship now and in the long term, particularly when it comes to our mutual priorities in the Indo-Pacific.” (ANI)
