India, Canada to sign civil nuclear agreement

Ottawa, Nov 12: Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper's aides have indicated that negotiations for a bilateral civil nuclear agreement are underway between India and Canada, and will be signed during his visit to India next week.

Harper will visit India between Nov16 and 19. He will visit New Delhi, Mumbai and Amritsar.

The civilian nuclear agreement has existed between both countries in draft form since the summer.

The accord would mirror similar deals reached by the United States, France and the European Union. Canada's International Trade Minister Stockwell Day is keen to add Canada to the list, the Globe and Mail reports.

Both countries are also expected to formally start work on a free trade agreement (FTA) and a joint study group to examine the feasibility of a comprehensive economic cooperation agreement that would free up trade in goods, services and investment.

Canada is facing strong competition from China in the US, its traditional export market, and is now looking at diversifying its presence in other parts. India being one of the fastest growing emerging economies, it is interested in expanding ties with the country.

ANI