Toronto, May 2017 /CNW/ – The trade partnership between Canada and India represents an important opportunity for both nations to build innovative communities and smart cities, strengthen businesses of all sizes and generate more jobs for the middle class.

Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, delivered remarks at the Canada-India Partnership Summit, an event hosted by the Canada-India Business Council. The Minister highlighted some of the important actions the Government of Canada is taking to enhance the countries' significant bilateral trade relationship, including his recent trip to key economic regions in India, where he promoted the interests of Canadian businesses and communities.

The Minister also participated in a panel discussion on Canada and India as smart country partners. He was joined by His Excellency Vikas Swarup, High Commissioner of India to Canada, and Mukesh Aghi, President of the U.S.-India Business Council.

Minister Bains hosted his third Spotlight India meeting. This gathering brings together the Minister and stakeholders interested in strengthening Canada-India business relations.

"Forging closer economic ties with India is a big priority for the Government of Canada. The benefits of this partnership extend beyond simply accelerating our respective GDP and generating more jobs. Together, we are also taking action to foster more innovative urban centres, strengthen businesses of all sizes and create a brighter future for the middle class." said Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development.

Kasi Rao, President and CEO, Canada-India Business Council quoted, "The Canada-India economic relationship will increasingly be one where our trade in commodities and resources will be augmented by the compelling innovation agenda of the two countries. The imminent launch of Air Canada's direct Toronto-Mumbai flight, the increase in our trade and investment engagement with India, and now the developing brain chain between Canada and India all point to a promising road ahead."