India, Canada still maintain strategic alignment, says Cameron Mackay

In Gandhinagar, Canada's High Commissioner to India, Cameron Mackay, emphasised the enduring alignment of strategic interests between India and Canada, despite recent diplomatic tensions. Speaking at a seminar during the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit, Cameron Mackay expressed encouragement for the sustained bilateral trade and investment relationship, considering the annual gathering as a vital platform to reinforce business-to-business and people-to-people ties.

Acknowledging diplomatic tensions between India and Canada, Cameron Mackay highlighted the leadership and vision of the business community, emphasising the importance of continuing the trade and investment relationship for the mutual benefit of both nations. He urged governments to focus on their diplomatic roles while encouraging robust business ties for job creation, technology partnerships, and shared prosperity.

He reassured that Canada's strategic interests and that of India's were fundamentally aligned in the long term. He urged collaboration to enhance business and foster friendly relations between the two nations.

Despite the diplomatic row last year, business relations between India and Canada have remained resilient. Mackay noted that over 100 Indian companies have invested in Canada, and more than 600 Canadian companies are active in India. He cited his recent visit to the McCain plant in Gujarat as an example of the ongoing economic collaboration.

Former Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan and Canada, Ajay Bisaria, shared a similar sentiment, describing the tensions as a temporary phase. He emphasised that the top leadership of both countries has made it clear that political disagreements will not impede the ongoing business relationship.

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