Modi's visit to Canada generated business worth 1.6 bn dollars

Toronto, Apr 18: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Canada has generated business worth more than 1.6 billion Canadian dollars, according to official figures released by the Harper government here.

Sixteen commercial agreements and announcements were made by Canadian and Indian companies and organisations during Prime Minister Modi's visit this week.

The commercial agreements and announcements have a combined value of over 1.6 billion Canadian dollars, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper's office said in a statement. [Prime Minister Narendra Modi calls Harper a dear friend]

The announcements cover a wide range of sectors, including aerospace and defence, education, energy, mining, infrastructure, sustainable technologies, information and communications technology.

The agreements further demonstrate the significant growth taking place in the Canada-India bilateral commercial relationship, the statement said. [PM Modi's three-nation tour positive; projects a self-confident India, say analysts]

"One commercial agreement involving Saskatchewan-based Cameco will see the company supply India with over seven million pounds of uranium over the next five years. This deal was made possible due in part to the Canada-India Nuclear Cooperation Agreement negotiated by our Government," it said.

Harper also welcomed Prime Minister Modi's announcement that India will issue visas upon arrival, which will make it easier for Canadians to travel to India.

Harper and Modi welcomed the progress made on negotiating a Bilateral Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement and agreed to intensify discussions to finalise all outstanding issues.

The two Prime Ministers also participated in several cultural events where they met with members of Canada's vibrant Indo-Canadian community.

During these events, Harper paid a tribute to the tremendous contributions the Indian-origin community continues to make to Canada's social, cultural and economic landscape.

PTI