BC Premier David Eby Holds Key Meeting with Punjab CM Bhagwant Mann
British Columbia Premier David Eby called on Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Friday. Both leaders emphasized the need to strengthen trade and people-to-people connections. This development comes amid ongoing diplomatic tensions between India and Canada.
Focus on Economic Cooperation and Investment
During the meeting, Chief Minister Mann highlighted Punjab's readiness to work closely with Canadian businesses. He pointed to several sectors of mutual interest. These include agro-processing, textiles, engineering goods, IT services, and renewable energy.
Mann stressed that Punjab offers robust infrastructure and a skilled English-speaking workforce. The state ranks among the leading regions in India for ease of doing business. He specifically mentioned the 'Invest Punjab' initiative. This program provides single window clearance and comprehensive support to investors.
Premier Eby thanked the Punjab government for its hospitality. He noted that Punjab holds a special place in the hearts of Punjabis living in British Columbia. Eby expressed strong interest in strengthening business ties. He wants to explore cooperation in areas like skill development and energy.
Delegation Includes Canadian Economic Minister
Ravi Kahlon, the Canadian Minister for Jobs and Economic Growth, joined the delegation. His presence underscored the economic focus of the visit. Eby is on a six-day tour of India, which concludes on Saturday.
Mann stated that Canada has always been a strong partner for India and Punjab. He called for deepening trade and investment ties, particularly with British Columbia. The Chief Minister identified multiple high-potential areas for collaboration.
Key Areas for Collaboration Identified:- Agriculture and Food Security: Mann said British Columbia's expertise in sustainable farming aligns with Punjab's modernization goals. Opportunities exist in precision farming and post-harvest systems.
- Education and Skill Development: The Chief Minister proposed collaboration between Canadian universities and Punjab in research and vocational training.
- Healthcare and Life Sciences: Mann flagged opportunities for Canadian firms in pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and telemedicine.
- Renewable Energy: Solar and bioenergy projects present significant potential for investment.
- IT and Digital Transformation: Punjab is keen to collaborate in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and agri-tech.
- Manufacturing and Engineering: Agricultural machinery and precision engineering were identified as promising sectors.
Proposals for Future Engagement
Chief Minister Mann made several specific proposals to enhance bilateral cooperation. He invited Canada to participate as a partner country at the Progressive Punjab Investors Summit in 2026. Mann also called on leading Canadian universities to explore setting up campuses in Mohali.
He encouraged Canadian technology and service companies to establish IT and ITeS operations in Punjab. The Chief Minister assured Canadian investors of full facilitation and support from the state government.
Mann highlighted the strong demand for Punjab's agricultural exports in Canada. Products like wheat, rice, kinnow, litchi, and processed foods benefit from the large Indian diaspora. He also proposed collaboration in textiles and apparel. Mann stressed the role of the Punjabi diaspora as a bridge for commercial and cultural exchange.
Meeting Occurs Amid Strained Bilateral Relations
This meeting assumes particular significance given the current state of India-Canada relations. Tensions have been high following a diplomatic row over the killing of Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada in June 2023.
Relations worsened after Canadian authorities alleged Indian agents' involvement in the killing. India strongly denied these allegations. The dispute led to tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions between the two countries.
Against this backdrop, the interaction between the British Columbia Premier and the Punjab Chief Minister indicates an effort towards a tentative thaw. The focus remained squarely on trade, investment, and people-to-people links at the sub-national level.
Punjab's Sensitive Role in India-Canada Ties
Punjab occupies a sensitive place in the relationship between India and Canada. Canada is home to approximately 770,000 Sikhs. This represents the largest Sikh diaspora outside Punjab itself.
The largest Sikh populations in Canada reside in Ontario, followed by British Columbia. Notably, there are 14 Punjabi-origin MLAs in the 93-member British Columbia assembly. This is the highest number ever recorded. They won their seats in the October 2024 elections.
The shadow of Khalistani separatism continues to loom large. This movement is rooted in the violent insurgency of the 1980s and early 1990s. India has long accused Canada of being soft on pro-Khalistan elements. Canada insists on its commitment to free speech and the rule of law. These fundamental differences have repeatedly strained bilateral ties.
Premier Eby's visit and his meeting with Chief Minister Mann represent a pragmatic step. Both sides are choosing to emphasize economic cooperation and diaspora connections. They are navigating complex political waters by focusing on tangible benefits for their respective populations.
