Canadian PM Mark Carney heads to India to boost trade and repair ties
France 24
by FRANCE 24February 24, 2026
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Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney is embarking on a significant Asia-Pacific tour, beginning with a visit to India, aimed at boosting trade and repairing strained diplomatic ties. This initiative reflects Canada’s broader strategy to diversify its international alliances, particularly amid growing global uncertainty and increasing economic tensions with the United States under President Donald Trump. Carney has emphasized that the traditional US-led global order is fading and that Canada must adapt by forging new partnerships.
The tour, which also includes stops in Australia and Japan, underscores Ottawa’s commitment to reducing reliance on the American market. This shift comes as Trump’s protectionist policies, such as tariffs on Canadian goods like autos, lumber, and steel, have caused economic strain. Carney has been actively rebuilding relationships with major Asian economies, including China, after years of frosty relations.
In India, Carney faces a critical opportunity to mend ties that were severely strained following accusations linking New Delhi to the 2023 assassination of a Canadian Sikh leader—a claim India denies. The visit will focus on revitalizing trade and diplomatic relations, with both leaders aiming to resolve past conflicts and set a new course for collaboration. The stakes are high as Canada seeks to double bilateral trade with India by 2030, targeting $70 billion in annual trade.
In Australia, Carney’s discussions with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will center on economic security, critical minerals, and defense cooperation—key areas of mutual interest in an increasingly competitive regional landscape. Similarly, his visit to Japan will aim to strengthen ties with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, focusing on shared priorities like trade and strategic partnerships.
This tour highlights Canada’s strategic pivot toward Asia as a means to safeguard its economic future and reduce vulnerability to US policies. By expanding international alliances and diversifying trade relationships, Carney is positioning Canada as a key player in the evolving global order, ensuring greater stability and prosperity at home and abroad.
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Originally published on France 24 on 2/24/2026