Free trade with India?

This week Prime Minister Trudeau is visiting/vacationing in India, a fact that has drawn some criticism from a variety of different sources.

The first criticism of this trip occurred when the Prime Minister arrived in India and many suggested Canada was ‘snubbed’ on account of India PM Narendra Modi not personally welcoming the entourage.

Was this an intentional slight and if so, why?

Interestingly, many foreign media sources are reporting the reason is related to allegations that Prime Minister Trudeau and members of his cabinet are sympathetic to radicalized operatives who support the Khalistan separatist movement in India.

It is further alleged that some of these operatives have close Canadian ties.

This is a complicated situation however in my view Prime Minister Trudeau has attempted to refute these allegations and has stated Canada’s long support for a united India.

Another announcement that has drawn criticism involved the subject of investment.

Earlier this week Prime Minister Trudeau announced that a $1 Billion dollar trade deal between Canada and India was reached. This good news announcement immediately drew headlines throughout Canadian media.

Critics and those knowledgeable in this area immediately cast doubt and challenged the validity of this claim.

Eventually it would be revealed that the trade deal is actually $750 Million of investment leaving Canada for India with $250 Million coming back to Canada in return.

In other words this is a $500 Million trade deficit for Canada.

As a result, the Prime Ministers office was forced to issue a correction that the Prime Minister ‘misspoke’ on the announcement.

My question this week:

Are you in favour of Canada pursuing a free trade agreement with India?

I can be reached at Dan.Albas@parl.gc.ca or call toll free 1-800-665-8711.

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