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Opening Remarks by External Affairs Minister at the Media Interaction in Toronto |
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High Commissioner Gavai,
Consul General Smt Preeti Saran,
Friends from the Media,
I am very pleased to meet you today in Toronto. As you may be aware, I am transiting through Toronto after my official visits to USA and Cuba.
Last evening Hon’ble Minister for Foreign Affairs of Canada Mr John Baird, joined by three other Cabinet Ministers, hosted a dinner for me. He flew in from Ottawa on a Sunday evening especially to host me. I am deeply touched and honoured by this special gesture and for his hospitality. It reaffirms, once again the importance that we both attach to India Canada relations. Minister John Baird and I reviewed the entire gamut of our bilateral relations and agreed on further strengthening the relationship. I look forward to receive Foreign Minister John Baird in India soon.
Immediately after this media interaction, I will be attending a Reception organised by the Consulate General of India and the Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce. I am happy to note that you are also joining us at the Reception.
I am taking advantage of my transit visit to renew our contacts with the Friends of India as well as the members of the vibrant Indo-Canadian community residing within the Greater Toronto Area. We in India are, indeed, proud of their achievements in Canada. This, of course, includes all of you. As members of a vibrant media that takes keen interest on India, you not only cover recent developments in India but also help bring Indo-Canadian community closer to their heritage and to their links with India.
Friends,
India - Canada relations have never been as close as they are today. These have been sustained more recently by a series of high level visits, including frequent interaction between our two Prime Ministers, both during visits to each others’ countries as well as at international Summits. Last year was a landmark year in our relations as the Year of India was observed in Canada. It was a celebration of the tremendous space that exists in our bilateral relations. There is immense scope for further cooperation in a number of sectors.
In recent years, our governments have signed several agreements in different areas of cooperation including nuclear cooperation, mining, agriculture, education, and science and technology. We are also discussing other instruments to further facilitate greater trade and commerce between our two countries including a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
There is an increased understanding on both sides of the vast untapped potential for further economic ties. The Indo-Canadian community is an important asset and an important link in building stronger ties between India and Canada. I want to take this opportunity, and convey through you, Government of India’s deep appreciation to the Indo-Canadian community for their immense contribution in bringing India and Canada closer together.
Thank you.
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Toronto
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June 18, 2012
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