India on Harper’s index

published by asingh on Thu, 11/01/2012 - 12:17

After laying out the red carpet for the Australian prime minister, New Delhi is preparing to host Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper next week.

Travelling through four cities — Agra, Chandigarh, Bangalore and Delhi — between November 3-9, Harper, whose conservative government has taken a definite turn towards India, plans to use his second visit to India to reset the agenda between the two countries.

Canada is emerging as one of India’s bigger sources for energy and minerals. Private Indian firms are being invited to invest in the energy sector in Canada, with the country using its established infrastructure, political stability and low risk as selling points.

In a statement, Harper said, “Canada enjoys a strong working and personal relationship with India but we must further strengthen the links between our two countries. India is a growing economy with enormous potential, and expanding our trade and investment links with India will create jobs, growth and long-term prosperity here in Canada.”

While trade is growing at a steady clip, Canada is also an attractive destination for at least 23,000 Indian students.

Harper will be accompanied by Ed Fast, minister of international trade and minister for the Asia-Pacific gateway; Joe Oliver, minister of natural resources; Gerry Ritz, minister of agriculture and agri-food; Bal Gosal, minister of state (sport); and Tim Uppal, minister of state (democratic reform), along with representatives of the business and cultural sectors.

Harper is also expected to display some Dhaba diplomacy in Chandigarh as he plans to eat at a local popular food-side eatery called Pal Dhaba, which is famous for its chicken tandoori and mutton curry.