Despite recent diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, the High Commissioner of Canada to India, Cameron Mackay, highlighted the alignment of strategic interests between the two countries. Speaking at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, Mackay emphasized the need for continued bilateral trade and investment relationships, asserting that the business-to-business ties would support job creation, technology partnerships, and the prosperity of both nations.
“In the past months, it has been a time of some tensions between our two countries. It is no secret. But I am encouraged by the leadership and vision of the business community present here and outside the room to continue with the trade and investment relationship, which is in the interest of both of our countries,” stated Mackay.
While acknowledging the diplomatic challenges, Mackay expressed confidence in the long-term alignment of Canada’s strategic interests with India’s. He urged governments to handle diplomatic matters while emphasizing the importance of maintaining business ties between the two nations.
“My advice to my government and that to the Indian government and business community on both sides is to let the governments do what they are doing, let the government do diplomacy, but everyone knows that in the long term, Canada’s strategic interest and India’s strategic interest are absolutely aligned,” affirmed the high commissioner.
Mackay stressed the significance of business-to-business ties, asserting that collaborative efforts in the business sector could contribute to fostering friendly relations between the nations. Despite diplomatic tensions, the high commissioner expressed optimism about the resilience of business relations and their potential to overcome political challenges.
“In the meantime, let’s have business-to-business ties. We should work together to make our businesses and nations friendly again,” Mackay added.
The high commissioner’s call for continued business engagement comes against the backdrop of strained relations between Canada and India. Last year, tensions escalated when Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of involvement in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India firmly rejected the allegation, leading to a cooling of diplomatic ties.
Despite the diplomatic row, Mackay asserted that business relations between the two countries remained unaffected. He commended the resilience of the business community in fostering economic ties and urged both governments to prioritize the long-term strategic interests that align Canada and India.
The Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit serves as a platform for discussions on economic and business collaboration, making Mackay’s remarks particularly relevant in emphasizing the importance of business ties amid diplomatic challenges. The summit provides an opportunity for stakeholders from both countries to explore avenues for trade, investment, and technology partnerships.
As Canada’s high commissioner encourages the continuation of business ties, the collaborative efforts of the private sector become crucial in maintaining and strengthening the economic relationship between Canada and India. Business-to-business interactions, technology collaborations, and investment initiatives are poised to play a pivotal role in driving job creation and fostering prosperity in both nations.
Cameron Mackay’s message at the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit underscores the resilience and importance of economic partnerships between Canada and India. Despite recent diplomatic strains, the call for sustained business engagement reflects a pragmatic approach to leverage shared strategic interests and foster mutual prosperity. As the business communities of both nations navigate challenges, their collaborative efforts serve as a testament to the enduring strength of Canada-India economic relations.
