Mohali (Punjab) [India], February 4 (ANI): Rajan Sawhney, Minister of Indigenous Relations in the Government of Alberta, Canada, on Tuesday highlighted the strong bilateral ties between India and Canada and expressed optimism about the upcoming visit of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney to India, saying it is likely to be beneficial and productive for both countries.
Speaking exclusively to ANI, Sawhney said she was in India to attend India Energy Week and to explore opportunities for collaboration in the area of energy security. She noted that energy security remains a top priority for countries around the world and emphasized the potential for deeper cooperation between India and Canada.
“My main mandate in coming to India was to attend India Energy Week and to talk about energy. We know that energy security is top of mind for many countries in the world. There is a tremendous opportunity for India and Canada to collaborate and have more trade relationships,” she said. Sawhney added that 97 percent of Canadian energy production comes from Alberta and said her visit was aimed at sharing Alberta’s energy story while meeting elected officials and business leaders to discuss opportunities.
Commenting on Prime Minister Carney’s upcoming visit to India, Sawhney said she did not have specific details, noting that Alberta is a sub-national government under the federal system. However, she expressed confidence that the visit would strengthen bilateral relations. “I’m very optimistic that things will happen in a way that’s mutually beneficial and productive for both countries. Part of the reason why I’m here is to talk about Canada and Alberta, and I can tell you I’ve received a lot of warmth and respect. We are here to deepen the bonds of friendship between both countries,” she said.
She also highlighted the strength of people-to-people ties, noting the recent launch of the India-Alberta Chamber in New Delhi. Sawhney said long-standing friendships between India and Alberta are being reinforced by growing interest in deeper engagement, especially as the global geopolitical landscape continues to evolve. She stressed that diverse trade agreements are essential in the current environment.
During her visit, Sawhney said she had the opportunity to visit several religious sites and spoke about the role of the Indian diaspora in shaping Canada’s multicultural society. “There are many Punjabis in Canada, and the culture is vibrant and deep. This adds to the fabric of our multicultural society. Our South Asian diaspora, not just from Punjab, is also very strong,” she said, adding that visiting places such as Bangla Sahib Gurudwara, Akshardham, and the BAPS Swaminarayan Mandir strengthened her sense of connection.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is scheduled to visit India in the first week of March. The visit is expected to include the signing of agreements related to uranium, energy, critical minerals, and artificial intelligence.
Sources in the Ministry of External Affairs said trade will be a key focus during Prime Minister Carney’s visit to India. (ANI)
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