Justin Trudeau in India updates: India, Canada hail friendship in statement, Modi says won't tolerate those who challenge unity

Amid ‘cold’ response to Canada PM, Tamilians on Twitter are losing their minds about him

On his visit to India, Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau has gone to a lot of places. He has been to the Sabarmati Ashram in Gujarat, Golden Temple in Amritsar and Jama Masjid in New Delhi.

He has met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Gujarat chief minister Vijay Rupani, Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh.

Yet, for some reason, the ones who are most excited (at least on Twitter) about Trudeau’s visit to India seem to be Tamilians.

#Tamils4JustinTrudeau is trending on Twitter. This fact becomes stranger when takes into consideration that Trudeau has neither visited Tamil Nadu nor said anything particularly focused on the Tamil community.

Visuals from Trudeau-Modi joint press conference

India is a natural partner and a trusted friend says Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau at the press remarks at Hyderabad House pic.twitter.com/kZYTx5YcBt

— Vikas Swarup (@VikasSwarup) February 23, 2018

MEA refers to Canadian side as ‘Iranian’ on its official website

Committed to building friendship with Canadian-based with Indian community: Modi

“We are committed to building friendliness with the Canadian-based Indian community and seeking active participation in India’s progress. India-Canada is a natural partnership of shared values. I hope to have more robust partnership between the two countries and the bright future of our two countries.”

कनाडा स्थित भारतीय समुदाय के साथ मित्रता के निर्माण हेतु हम प्रतिबद्ध हैं और भारत की प्रगति में उनकी सक्रिय भागीदारी चाहते हैं। भारत-कनाडा साझा मूल्यों की एक स्वाभाविक साझेदारी है। मुझे दोनों देशों के बीच अधिक मजबूत साझेदारी और हमारे दोनों देशों के उज्ज्वल भविष्य की आशा है: PM

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 23, 2018

Six MoUs signed between Canada and India

MoUs were signed on energy, higher education, trade and investment, sports etc. You can read the full list on the official MEA website.

Canada looks to diversify its own economy: Justin Trudeau

As #Canada looks to diversify its own economy and looks for new opportunities to do business beyond its boundaries, India is a natural partner and a trusted friend for commercial cooperation: #JustinTrudeau pic.twitter.com/39Xht4ECab

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2018

Will not tolerate those who try to divide country, says Modi

There should be no space for those who misuse religion for political motives and promote separatism. We will not tolerate those who challenge unity and integrity of our countries: PM Modi

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2018

India is a trusted friend: Trudeau

“As Canada looks to do business beyond borders, India is a natural partner and trusted friend in commercial operations,” says Justin Trudeau.

‘Talked about how to come together to benefit both Indians and Canada’: Trudeau

“I thank Prime Minister Modi for his warm reception here. We share, not only a rich history, but a natural friendship between the two nations. I’m glad to say we wrapped up a productive meeting and discussed mutual interests. 

First, talked about how to come together to benefit both Indians and Canada.”

‘People-to-people interaction is the bedrock of India-Canada relations,’ says Modi

Terrorism, extremism threats to pluralistic societies: Modi

“We have agreed to strengthen our security cooperation. Terrorism and extremism are threats to democratic, pluralistic societies like India and Canada. It is important to come together to combat these.”

हम अपने सुरक्षा सहयोग को सुदृढ़ करने पर सहमत हुए हैं।
आतंकवाद और उग्रवाद भारत और कनाडा जैसे लोकतांत्रिक, बहुलवादी समाजों के लिए खतरा हैं। इन ताकतों का मुकाबला करने के लिए हमारा साथ आना महत्वपूर्ण है: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 23, 2018

‘Those challenging the sovereignty, unity and integrity of our countries cannot even be tolerated’: Modi

धर्म का राजनीतिक उद्देश्य के लिए दुरूपयोग करने वालों को और बॅंटवारे की खाई खोदने वालों के लिए कोई जगह नहीं होनी चाहिए।

हमारे देशों की संप्रभुता, एकता और अखंडता को चुनौती देने वालों को भी बर्दाश्त नहीं किया जा सकता: PM @narendramodi

— PMO India (@PMOIndia) February 23, 2018

‘Happy you visited with your family’

Your visit awaited since long, we are happy that you visited along with your family :PM Modi to Canadian PM #JustinTrudeau pic.twitter.com/wmHQr6BbuM

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2018

MoUs on education, trade and investment exchanged between India and Canada

WATCH: Narendra Modi-Justin Trudeau to address joint press conference

#WATCH Live: Press statements by PM Modi & Canadian PM #JustinTrudeau in Delhi. https://t.co/VvKxi6RuQp

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2018

Narendra Modi-Justin Trudeau to deliver their joint statement shortly

Justin Trudeau and Narendra Modi discuss trade, investment at delegation-level talks

Taking the relationship forward! PM @narendramodi and Canadian PM @JustinTrudeau discussed strengthening cooperation in trade & investment, energy, education, healthcare, IT, start up, science & technology, defence and security, tourism and people-to-people contacts. pic.twitter.com/OS7wj84IcE

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) February 23, 2018

‘Stop trying so hard’: Indians to Justin Trudeau

The Canadian prime minister, Justin Trudeau, is known to go to extreme lengths to project himself as part of a cause. It is very evident on his India trip where he can been wearing dazzling sherwanis and performing bhangra at a Canada House event or wearing kurtas to the Golden Temple. Social media users were quick to latch on to this and began saying that ‘it was too Indian even for Indians’. According to  NDTV , Vivek Dehejia, an economics professor in Ottawa told Canada’s Global News, “It’s a little over the top. I understand on day one having to wear the traditional clothes, but now it’s getting too much.”

Visuals of Indian, Canadian media waiting for Modi-Trudeau’s joint statement

All the Indian media waiting for the joint statements from @JustinTrudeau and @narendramodi. pic.twitter.com/wJImMsoavQ

— Abigail Bimman (@AbigailBimman) February 23, 2018

‘New momentum in relationship!’ 

New momentum in the relationship! PM @narendramodi received Canadian PM @JustinTrudeau at the Hyderabad House ahead of the bilateral talks. pic.twitter.com/41Coy83qw6

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) February 23, 2018

India-Canada ties show signs of tension since Justin Trudeau began his India trip

Ties between India and Canada have shown signs of tension ever since Trudeau began his visit to India.

First off, Modi not receiving his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau at the airport, a courtesy he extended to some world leaders in the past, had triggered speculation in Canada that it was a snub to him for the rising Sikh radicalism in that country.

There were stories in Canadian media that said Trudeau’s perceived support for Sikh separatists may be the reason for the “snub”.

The Sikhs in Canada wield significant political clout and Trudeau’s Cabinet has four Sikh members. The (government) sources said the prime minister received around five leaders at the airport during the last three-and-half years which included the Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former US president Barack Obama, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan twice.

Images of Narendra Modi and Justin Trudeau at Hyderabad House

Delegation-level talks are underway at the moment. 

PM @narendramodi with PM of Canada @JustinTrudeau at Hyderabad House pic.twitter.com/zufzfuwz0Z

— PIB India (@PIB_India) February 23, 2018

Delegation-level talks to take place at 12.30 pm

As per the Canadian prime minister’s website , Justin Trudeau, along with the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, Navdeep Bains, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chrystia Freeland, the Minister of Defence, Harjit Sajjan, the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, Amarjeet Sohi, the Minister of Science and Minister of Sport and Persons with Disabilities, Kirsty Duncan, and the Minister of Small Business and Tourism, Bardish Chagger will hold an expanded bilateral meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House.

WATCH: Narendra Modi meets Canadian PM Justin Trudeau at Hyderabad House

PM @narendramodi meets Visiting PM of Canada @JustinTrudeau at Hyderabad House in New Delhi.#AIRVideos: Shiela pic.twitter.com/1jLFHiVjoV

— All India Radio News (@airnewsalerts) February 23, 2018

Justin Trudeau and Narendra Modi meet at Hyderabad House

Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Canadian Prime Minister #JustinTrudeau at #Delhi's Hyderabad House, to hold delegation level talks later. pic.twitter.com/zoQTiZ8E2f

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2018

Modi-Trudeau meet next on agenda

At 12 pm, Justin Trudeau is scheduled to meet Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House.

More visuals from Justin Trudeau’s meet with Sushma Swaraj

Canadian Prime Minister #JustinTrudeau meets EAM Sushma Swaraj in #Delhi. pic.twitter.com/9ta68iML8Y

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2018

Union minister Harsimrat Badal Kaur misses the ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan

Sorry to miss the ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhawan and lunch at Hyderabad House today, with Canadian PM @JustinTrudeau , due to prior commitment to the people of my constituency, who will be waiting for me at a rally in Sardulgarh.

— Harsimrat Kaur Badal (@HarsimratBadal_) February 23, 2018

Images from Trudeau’s visit to Rajghat earlier

#Delhi: Canadian Prime Minister #JustinTrudeau & his family pay tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. pic.twitter.com/M3sDqfgmPy

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2018

Justin Trudeau meets Sushma Swaraj, discuss ways to strengthen partnership

Picture speaks for itself! EAM @SushmaSwaraj had a warm meeting with the Prime Minister of Canada @JustinTrudeau and discussed ways to strengthen and deepen our partnership. pic.twitter.com/4nB1QmwgQT

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) February 23, 2018

More images of Justin Trudeau meeting Narendra Modi at Rashtrapati Bhavan

PM @narendramodi welcomes Canadian PM @JustinTrudeau & his Family during the Ceremonial Reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. pic.twitter.com/y4AUq1rYUw

— PIB India (@PIB_India) February 23, 2018

Harsimrat Badal urges Justin Trudeau to launch Amritsar-Toronto flights

Union minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal on Thursday urged Trudeau to start Toronto-Amritsar Air Canada flights  on the sidelines of the India-Canada business session, reported Hindustan Times.

WATCH: Justin Trudeau pays tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat

Paying homage to the Father of the Nation. PM @JustinTrudeau and family pay floral tributes at the samadhi of Mahatma Gandhi pic.twitter.com/an2QcIpmP1

— Vikas Swarup (@VikasSwarup) February 23, 2018

More photos from Justin Trudeau’s official welcome ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan

As PM @JustinTrudeau receives ceremonial welcome at @rashtrapatibhvn on his State Visit to India, take a look at the strategic partnership b/w #IndiaCanada based on the shared values of democracy & pluralismhttps://t.co/OymNDhFhwF pic.twitter.com/Mm6VP1607E

— Indian Diplomacy (@IndianDiplomacy) February 23, 2018

Is Justin Trudeau’s trip a total disaster?

Writing for  The Washington Post , journalist Barkha Dutt says that the unusual length of Trudeau’s trip may help explain why it began on a “discordant note”. The editorial quotes government sources as saying that India had requested Canada to shorten Trudeau’s trip or sequence it differently, beginning with political talks. However, that did not happen. “India wanted to start the trip with political talks before Trudeau played tourist. The Canadians disagreed. Also, the Canadians expected Modi to accompany Trudeau to his home state of Gujarat, just as he had done with Shinzo Abe, Xi Jinping and Benjamain Netanyahu. India declined.”

Journalist who protested Narendra Modi’s 2015 Canada visit is part of Justin Trudeau’s delegation visiting India

According to  The Indian Express , Canadian journalist Manvir Singh Saini, who had protested Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2015 visit to Canada, is part of Justin Trudeau’s media delegation and has accompanied him to all official events so far. 

In 2015, photos of Saini holding banners that read “Modi is a Terrorist”, “Modi you are not welcome in Canada”, and “India out of Khalistan” had gone viral at the time.

Trudeau to head to Rajghat next

Following his official welcome at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi, Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau will move to the Rajghat next, where he will lay a wreath at Mahatma Gandhi’s memorial.

WATCH: Canada PM Justin Trudeau meets Indian delegation

#LIVE -- Canadian PM @JustinTrudeau meets Indian delegation #TrudeauInIndia pic.twitter.com/6xQb3SIu43

— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 23, 2018

WATCH: Narendra Modi hugs Justin Trudeau, welcomes family in New Delhi 

PM @narendramodi welcomes his Canadian counterpart @JustinTrudeau & his family at @rashtrapatibhvn in #NewDelhi pic.twitter.com/smRvWXEcYc

— DD News (@DDNewslive) February 23, 2018

Visuals of Trudeau at the Guard of Honour ceremony

#Delhi: Canadian Prime Minister #JustinTrudeau inspects guard of honour at Rashtrapati Bhawan. pic.twitter.com/L3UZryhRwL

— ANI (@ANI) February 23, 2018

WATCH: Narendra Modi welcomes Justin Trudeau at Rashtrapati Bhavan

#BREAKING -- PM Narendra Modi meets Canadian PM Justin Trudeau and family in the national capital #TrudeauInIndia pic.twitter.com/y8hRyC7UZA

— News18 (@CNNnews18) February 23, 2018

Narendra Modi welcomes Justin Trudeau and his family at Rashtrapati Bhavan

The Canadian prime minister was welcomed with a Guard of Honour, with the Canadian and Indian national anthems played in the background. This is the first engagement for the day for Trudeau’s schedule.

RECAP: Sushma Swaraj and her Canadian counterpart Chrystia Freeland discuss trade, security, investment

EAM @SushmaSwaraj and Canadian Foreign Minister @cafreeland had wide ranging discussions on strengthening relations in trade and investment, security and cyber security, energy, people to people contacts and other relevant bilateral and regional issues. pic.twitter.com/FfIFx5AfB0

— Randhir Jaiswal (@MEAIndia) February 22, 2018

It will take combined charm of PMs to mitigate bad vibes

But those (Canada’s) linkages (with Khalistan), frowned upon by New Delhi, could have escaped too much scrutiny if those who had scheduled Trudeau’s visit had listened to India and ensured he stopped early in the National Capital for the government-to-government dialogue with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Instead, they opted to have him gallivant across the country — from Agra to Ahmedabad and Mumbai to Amritsar. In that period, people noticed Modi had not welcomed him with his trademark tweet (something he eventually did on Thursday, on the eve of their meeting), and the story of the ‘snub’ went global.

As the two prime ministers finally meet at Hyderabad House in New Delhi at noon, something could still be salvaged out of this magnified mess. And the relationship between India and Canada is far too significant to allow it to be reflected in the buildup to that bilateral summit. But it will take the combined charm of Trudeau and Modi to elevate the public conversation over the debris left by the disaster so far.

Justin Trudeau responds to Modi’s tweet, says his daughter remembers his visit well

She remembers it well, @narendramodi! It's been great to visit so far - we'll see you today. 🇨🇦🇮🇳 https://t.co/5C2CgLOW6n

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) February 23, 2018

Modi’s meet comes a day after controversy over Khalistani leader’s invitation with Trudeau

Amid the row over the presence of Khalistani sympathisers in Canada’s Cabinet, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has said that Jaspal Atwal should “never have received an invitation” to his event, even as India said it is ascertaining details on how the convicted militant obtained a visa.

Addressing the controversy, Trudeau said the dinner invitation to Atwal, who was once active in the International Sikh Youth Federation, was rescinded as soon as the Canadian government received the information about him, ANI reported.

Justin Trudeau’s schedule for the day:

9 am – Official greeting ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan

9.30 am – Wreath laying ceremony at Rajghat

10.15 am – Trudeau to meet External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj

12 pm – Meet Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House

12.30 pm – Ministers of Canadian cabinet to hold expanded bilateral talks with Narendra Modi at Hyderabad House

1.15 pm – Exchange of agreements and deliver remarks with Narendra Modi

2.45 pm – Participate in a roundtable with Chief Executive Officers at Taj Diplomatic Enclave Hotel

5 pm – Meet President Ram Nath Kovind at Rashtrapati Bhavan

​6.30 pm – Will hold media availability at Taj Diplomatic Enclave Hotel

Modi reminisces 2015 meeting with Trudeau, tweets photo 

I hope PM @JustinTrudeau and his family had a very enjoyable stay so far. I particularly look forward to meeting his children Xavier, Ella-Grace, and Hadrien. Here is a picture from my 2015 Canada visit, when I'd met PM Trudeau and Ella-Grace. pic.twitter.com/Ox0M8EL46x

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 22, 2018

Modi looks forward to meeting Trudeau

I look forward to meeting PM @JustinTrudeau tomorrow and holding talks on further strengthening India-Canada relations in all spheres. I appreciate his deep commitment to ties between our two countries.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) February 22, 2018

Narendra Modi to meet Justin Trudeau today

With questions raised over his silence so far ever since Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau’s arrival in India on Saturday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday evening welcomed him on his visit and said that he looked forward to meeting him on Friday.

Updates for 23 January, 2018 begin here

‘Khalistan is the primary issue’ – Amarinder Singh, after Trudeau meet

“I raised the issue of Khalistan as it’s the primary issue, as there is money coming in from various countries including Canada that then helps create unrest in Punjab,” Singh said, according to ANI.

‘I also handed over a list of people in Canada that we think are involved in spreading ruckus in Punjab to Trudeau’, he added. 

I raised issue of #Khalistan as its the primary issue, as there is money coming in from various countries including Canada: Captain Amarinder Singh, Punjab CM after meeting Canadian PM #JustinTrudeau pic.twitter.com/JINWm8Ik1h

— ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2018

‘Very impressed with Canadian PM’

Speaking to ANI after a 30-minute long one-to-one with Justin Trudeau, Amarinder Singh said that he was very impressed with the Canadian prime minister. He said that a range of issues and proposals were discussed, including investment prospects in the service sector, dairy farming, agriculture and trade with the state of Punjab.

“He is very sincere and willing to work alongside Punjab. I hope he will take our talks forward,” Singh said.

Amarinder Singh’s meet with Trudeau ends; Khalistan issue raised

I took up with Canadian PM, the militancy concerns we have and he has assured us that they will look into this matter: Captain Amarinder Singh, Punjab CM pic.twitter.com/MozCKmuq7c

— ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2018

Punjab CM also meets Canadian defence minister Harjit Sajjan

Amarinder Singh’s meeting with Harjit Sajjan holds significance as tensions between India and Canada have continued to simmer over the Khalistan issue , especially between the Canadian government and the Punjab chief minister.

Singh, in 2017, had accused Canadian Sajjan — part of Trudeau’s delegation — of being sympathetic to the cause of Sikh separatists agitating for an independent Khalistan. According to a report in The Indian Express , Singh had even publicly refused to meet Sajjan during his 2017 trip.

Amarinder-Trudeau meet underway 

Pleasure meeting Canadian Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau. Look forward to my talks with him for further strengthening Indo-Canadian ties. pic.twitter.com/2yALzo2T7S

— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) February 21, 2018

Trudeau arrives for his meet with Amarinder Singh

Canadian prime minister will have a one-to-one meeting with Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh at Taj Hotel in Amritsar. Singh will also interact with six Canadian ministers accompanying Trudeau.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau & Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan meet Punjab's CM Capt. Amarinder Singh in Amritsar. pic.twitter.com/b0quHM1jDh

— ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2018

Watch: Justin Trudeau and his family receive blessings at the Golden Temple

Amritsar, India - Day 4: Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau and his family at Harmandir Sahib. Waheguru Ji Satnam Ji 🙏 @NavdeepSBains @BardishKW @SohiAmarjeet @HarjitSajjan @RajLiberal @SoniaLiberal @KamalKheraLib @randeepssarai @adhillonDLL @gagansikand @Shaun_Chen @Kevin_Lamoureux pic.twitter.com/E05Zlo0XKg

— Ruby Sahota (@rubysahotalib) February 21, 2018

‘What an honour to be so well received at such a beautiful, meaningful place’

Canadian Prime Minister #JustinTrudeau's message in the visitors book at #Amritsar's Golden Temple. pic.twitter.com/LGJZmbSZwC

— ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2018

Trudeau at Golden Temple with family

Punjab: Canadian Prime Minister #JustinTrudeau at #Amritsar's Golden Temple, with his family. pic.twitter.com/YaYGvBTBRR

— ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2018

Trudeau with Navjot Singh Sidhu earlier at the airport

Canadian Prime Minister #JustinTrudeau arrived in #Punjab's Amritsar, with his family, earlier today. MoS Hardeep Singh Puri & Punjab Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu were present to receive them. pic.twitter.com/oc9HgPOzuA

— ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2018

Navjot Singh Sidhu received Trudeau at the airport

Union minister of state (Independent Charge) for Housing and Urban Affairs Hardeep Singh Puri and Punjab Cultural Affairs and Tourism Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu received Trudeau and a delegation of Canadian ministers and MPs at the Sri Guru Ramdas International Airport at around 10.40 am.

At the airport, they were also accompanied by the Amritsar Commissioner of Police SS Srivastva and the Deputy Commissioner Kamaldeep Singh Sangha, officials said.

Tight security arrangements have been made by the Punjab Police in Amritsar with over 1,500 cops being deployed in the holy city. Senior police officials including SSPs and DIGs, besides the SWAT (Special Weapons and Tactics) team, have also been deployed. — PTI

Justin Trudeau arrives at Golden Temple

#Punjab: Canadian Prime Minister #JustinTrudeau along with his wife and children arrives at Amritsar's Golden Temple. pic.twitter.com/Pvv8jDe4Zr

— ANI (@ANI) February 21, 2018

Canadian politician interacts with law school students in Punjab

Patiala, India - Day 3: Spoke to law school students at Punjabi University about how the friendship between Canada and India is bolstered by strong people-to-people ties, with both countries embracing education as one of the most important pathways to success and collaboration. pic.twitter.com/ILG9kE5GDo

— Ruby Sahota (@rubysahotalib) February 21, 2018

Man in Punjab wants Trudeau to extradite his wife’s alleged killers

Sukhwinder Singh Mithu’s Canadian wife Jaswinder Kaur Jassi was allegedly killed at the behest of her mother and paternal uncle, according to Hindustan Times .

Mithu wants Trudeau to “personally intervene” to extradite both the accused to India.

“He should help in extraditing the two culprits to India to face law of the land. They have killed my love and I have been fighting for justice for 18 years. Why is Canada protecting the killers?” the report quoted Mithu as saying.

Amarinder Singh to meet six ministers accompanying Trudeau too

On request from @CanadainIndia, Punjab C.M. @capt_amarinder will interact with the six ministers accompanying the Canadian PM @JustinTrudeau after the one-to-one meeting between the two leaders. Union Minister @HardeepSPuri will also be present. pic.twitter.com/2mt7cuuxlF

— Raveen Thukral (@Raveen64) February 21, 2018

On my way to Amritsar: Amarinder Singh

On my way to Amritsar for an one-to-one meeting with Canadian Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau. pic.twitter.com/AtsZmmHcq7

— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) February 21, 2018

Trudeau met Shah Rukh Khan last night

Tonight, we celebrated stronger ties & new co-production opportunities between Bollywood and the Canadian Film Industry. And who better to help than @iamsrk himself... Great to meet you! 🇮🇳🇨🇦 pic.twitter.com/1OcwsA9lMS

— Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) February 20, 2018

Updates begin for 21 February

Hardeep Singh Puri, Navjot Singh Sidhu to receive Justin Trudeau at Amritsar airport
 

Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Singh Puri and Punjab Local Government and Cultural Affairs and Tourism Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu will receive Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau at the Sri Guru Ramdas Jee International Airport in Amritsar on Wednesday during the latter’s visit to the Sikh holy city.

Sidhu would also accompany the Canadian prime minister during the visit to the Golden Temple complex, a Punjab government spokesperson said on Tuesday. Trudeau will also visit the recently inaugurated Partition Museum.

Sidhu will accompany Trudeau during the visit to both places.Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh is expected to meet Trudeau at a hotel in Amritsar during the visit. “The Punjab government accords full importance to the ties it has with the Government of Canada and is committed wholeheartedly to further strengthen the mutual co-operation between the two governments,” the spokesperson said. — IANS

Recap: Trudeau says India Inc to invest $1 billion, create 5,000 new jobs in Canada

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday said corporate India has committed $1 billion worth of investments in his country, which will create over 5,000 jobs.

Trudeau made the announcement after meetings with industry leaders including Tata Group chairman N Chandrasekaran; Birla Group chairman Kumar Mangalam Birla; Mahindra group chief Anand Mahindra; Salil Parikh of Infosys, and Cyrus Mistry of the Pallonjee Mistry group, among others.

The Canadian premier also had a 90-minute roundtable with women business leaders including ICICI Bank chief Chanda Kochhar and Swati Piramal of the Piramal Group, among others at the iconic Taj Mahal hotel. —PTI

Sophie Gregoire Trudeau says education is the key to ending gender inequality

Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau’s wife Sophie Gregoire Trudeau, a mother of three, said education is the key to ending gender inequality. “You are engaged in the process and you must continue… education is the key in this process,” she said, adding the fight against gender inequality has achieved initial success but a lot remains to be done.

During her 17-minute-long speech at Sophia College for Women in South Mumbai, she praised the diversity in India, saying, “India is a wonderful and vibrant country, besides being a beacon of diversity and innovation. And you all can continue to serve as an example to the world of how a nation can be so diverse but also so compassionate.”

To a query by a student on how Canada is addressing the issue of gender inequality, she said her government is committed to bringing equality in all sectors. “The government of Canada is committed to upholding gender equality in all sectors. There is an equal number of males and females in the Cabinet and girls were doing a good job in education and academics,” she said. —PTI

Sophie Gregoire Trudeau calls for ending gender inequality

The wife of visiting Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Tuesday called for an end to gender disparity, saying the world has suffered a lot due to inequality between men and women.

All sections of the society should “stand up together” to eliminate gender disparity from the world, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau said at Sophia College for Women in South Mumbai.

“Misconceptions have led to many sufferings. It is a misogynist belief that girls are lesser than boys. “Being able to acknowledge the true value of women is not a sign of weakness, but strength. A man has full potential to become strong, courageous and fearless but (he) also has the same potential to become tender and compassionate,” she said.

The fight for eliminating inequality does not mean pitting one gender against the other, Sophie Gregoire Trudeau said, adding “rather men are our allies.” The 42-year-old former television host and women’s rights activist is accompanying her husband on his eight-day visit to India. —PTI

Amarinder Singh confirms meeting with Justin Trudeau, says he looks forward to meeting the Canadian prime minister in Amritsar 

Look forward to meeting Canadian Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau in Amritsar on Wednesday. I’m hopeful that this meeting will help strengthen the close Indo-Canadian business ties as well as the deep-rooted people-to-people relations between our two countries.

— Capt.Amarinder Singh (@capt_amarinder) February 19, 2018

Visuals of Justin Trudeau holding a discussion with women entrepreneurs and business leaders in Mumbai

#TrudeauinIndia: @CanadianPM Trudeau chats #WomenEmpowerment & fostering opportunities for women in leadership roles through a mentorship initiative w. #WomenEntrepreneurs & business leaders in #Mumbai.@Women_Canada @MinistryWCD @unwomenindia @FollowCII @C_IBC @icbc_org pic.twitter.com/PAlc9r3UyA

— Canada in India (@CanadainIndia) February 20, 2018

Meanwhile, Justin Trudeau’s wife Sophie Trudeau had an interaction with youngsters and women’s rights activists at Sophia College 

Sophie Grégoire Trudeau reportedly held discussions on domestic and gender-based violence at Sophia College in Mumbai. Activist Trisha Shetty commended Sophie for her discussions on equality. 

Reaching out to brilliant young girls and speaking on causes close to her heart, Madame Sophie Trudeau.
At Sophia college #womenempoweringwomen pic.twitter.com/IoJbVzbM6H

— Aparna Swarup (@aparnaswarup) February 20, 2018

#TrudeauInIndia We need more leaders like Sophie Trudeau if we are to achieve equality.
Spent the afternoon with her & women activists engaging in honest dialogue about domestic violence and strategising on how we can collaborate forces to end the pandemic of GBV #endVAW pic.twitter.com/sjgMBCosIV

— Trisha Shetty (@TrishaBShetty) February 20, 2018

Visuals of Chanda Kochhar’s discussion with Justin Trudeau in Mumbai 

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau meets Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis in Mumbai

Promoting business, investment and cultural ties between Maharashtra and Canada. Hon'ble Chief Minister of Maharashtra @Dev_Fadnavis meets Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau in Mumbai pic.twitter.com/jFPXG9cLfC

— Vikas Swarup (@VikasSwarup) February 20, 2018

Our greatest resource is our people, says Trudeau 

“One thing people think about Canada is the natural resources. Canada is a great opportunity for high-quality natural resources done responsibly. But our greatest resource is our people,” Trudeau said about the demography in Canada. 

“We’re showing that investing in the right places is important. We are investing in superclusters which will let you network with the right individuals and create multiplier effects on innovation and growth,” he added.

India’s High Commissioner to Canada Vikas Swarup tweets about Trudeau’s discussion at the India-Canada business forum in Mumbai 

The future is being created here in India, says Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau in conversation with @ICICIBank Chief Chanda Kochhar at the Canada-India Business Forum in Mumbai pic.twitter.com/zZfCvjgoMg

— Vikas Swarup (@VikasSwarup) February 20, 2018

Want more young people to take advantage of our Canadian universities: Trudeau

“There are threats in the form of artificial intelligence (AI) and the global supply chain. But we want more young people to take advantage of our universities,” Trudeau said in relation to his discussion on immigration. “We are leading in the fields of AI, automation and self-driving cars. We have decided that we want to be part of the future and I see similar implementation in India, which is exciting,” he added.  

“I am very lucky that I was a teacher, for me, it’s all about curiosity. It is a tremendous opportunity to be here to continue to grow Indo-Canadian relations, and it is a pleasure for me to be here and share it with my family as well,” Justin Trudeau says about his India visit, ANI reports

I am very lucky that I was a teacher, for me its all about curiosity. It is a tremendous opportunity to be here to continue to grow Indo-Canadian relations, and it is a pleasure for me to be here and share it with my family as well: Justin Trudeau in Mumbai pic.twitter.com/mukV2BmQ2G

— ANI (@ANI) February 20, 2018

At a time when the world is turning away from trade, we are proud to be signing trade agreements, Trudeau says

When Kochhar asked Trudeau’s thoughts on trade agreements, he said, “I worry about the impact of trade on globalisation. At a time when the world is turning away from trade, we are proud to be signing trade agreements. We know that trade leads to growth. But if we’re are able to keep public support for the trade agreements. We ensure that small traders get benefits for these trade deals.”

He also emphasised the ease of doing business in Canada, “Companies can get visas within two weeks. Openness to international talent is a positive advantage in the world trade.” 

“Same goes for immigration,” he added. “Canada is opening up for immigration. One complaint we get is that we are not getting enough immigration,” Trudeau said about Canada’s stance on immigration.

India should lead the way to promote diversity and living harmoniously, says Trudeau 

“I want to share the beautiful diversity of India,” Trudeau commended the diversity of the nation. “I wanted to highlight the extraordinary diversity in India to my kids. One of the things that I really wanted to show to my kids is the extraordinary diversity of India, being able to go to a mandir, to the Golden Temple, to a mosque  and then to other places, this highlights the diversity and pluralism of India, which isn’t without its challenges,” he added.  

“It has an important impact on society, but it isn’t without its challenges,” he reiterated. “India should be leading the way on diversity and living harmoniously,” Trudeau said.

You can see the potential emerging in India, Trudeau says at the India-Canada business forum in Mumbai 

Trudeau spoke of how different his experience in India was this time as compared to his visit to the nation 35 years ago. “Seeing the Taj Mahal through the eyes of my kids was very interesting. You see the potential here, you see the activity going on here…There’s an important evolution going on here,” he said about the changes in the country 

People-to-people interactions between India and Canada are crucial, says Trudeau 

When Kochhar asked Trudeau about trade between the two nations, Trudeau said business is important for him, but the connection between people is just as important. “I think people-to-people interaction is more important. We have 125 thousand Indian students In Canada. If we focus on people to people connections, then those kinds of synergies are more important for me,” the Canadian prime minister said.

Excited about opportunities in India-Canada friendship, says Trudeau 

MD and CEO ICICI Bank, Chanda Kochhar hosted the dialogue with Trudeau at the India-Canada business forum in Mumbai. When she asked Trudeau for his feedback on India’s “reforms to transform,” Trudeau said, “There’s a tremendous connection between India and Canada across various sectors. We spoke about Canadian companies investing in India.” 

“It was a win-win day for all of us. I’m excited about the opportunities in the India-Canada friendship. There are not just business but cultural and people-to-people ties that are important.” he added.

Trudeau urges business leaders to work towards general equality, contribute to abolishing the wage gap

Trudeau began his address at the Canada-India Mumbai Business Forum by explaining why he came late. “Why we are late here? I spent the last hour and a half speaking with women business leaders…They were sharing their stories. We talked about the gender gap. It was an important moment to recognise that there is a lot to be done for general equality.”

He spoke about the systems in place in Canada in relation to gender parity. “Canada has a law on gender parity and a lot of opportunities for women in business. We have a lot of wage parity difference between men and women and we’ve lots to do there,” he said. “There should be more business leaders who should involve more women. It’s not just a nice thing to do but a smart thing to do,” he added.

Justin Trudeau begins addressing the Canada-India Mumbai Business Forum

Justin Trudeau interacts with business leaders in Mumbai, discuss plans to boost investment in Canada

Global National journalist Abigail Bimman‏ says that when Justin Trudeau met business leaders in Mumbai, Infosys said it plans to double its Canadian presence in two years. Pharmaceutical company Jubilant Bhartia Group also said that it wants to add over $ 100 million into its Montreal operation

PM met w/6 business leaders in Mumbai this including Tata Sons. Some made Canadian expansion plan promises. @Infosys wants to double its Cdn presence in two years adding 100s of jobs. Pharmaceutical giant Jubilant Bhartia Group wants to add $100M to its Montreal operation.

— Abigail Bimman (@AbigailBimman) February 20, 2018

Canada and India are natural partners, says C-IBC president Kasi Rao

Kasi Rao, president and CEO of the C-IBC said that Justin Trudeau’s India visit would be an extraordinary platform for Canada. “This visit by the prime minister is a momentous one. Canada and India are natural partners sharing common values and objectives relating to economic relations, ideas and innovation, and pluralism and democracy," Rao  said . 

“Diversifying our trade and investment flows are vital for Canada’s future. Prime minister Trudeau’s visit provides an extraordinary platform to advance the Canadian advantage”, he added.

Justin Trudeau to begin addressing Canada-India Mumbai Business Forum soon 

Input from Nimish Sawant, Tech2

Justin Trudeau to meet Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at 4 pm, reports Business Standard

Khalistan issue has derailed focus of Trudeau’s visit, says Herb Dhaliwal

​

Canada’s first Cabinet minister of Indian origin, Herb Dhaliwal, says the focus of the ongoing visit of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to India has been derailed by the Khalistan issue.

“It is very unfortunate that the media in India has overblown this Khalistan issue. This has shifted the focus away from trade — which is what the two countries should be discussing,” Dhaliwal, who in 1993 became the first Indian to be elected as an MP in the Western world, told IANS.

Dhaliwal said the vast majority of Sikhs in Canada have nothing to do with Khalistan. All they want is that human rights must be respected and the culprits behind the 1984 killings should be brought to justice. 

Urging Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Trudeau not to let this issue divert their focus from trade, Dhaliwal said the economic interests of India and Canada are complimentary.  “Canada is rich in oil and gas and we can help meet the energy security demands of India’s fast-growing economy. We can also be a major supplier of agricultural products for India.” — IANS

Canada-India governments launch Bilateral Entrepreneurship Program, with a focus on women entrepreneurs

Zone Startups has been chosen by the Canadian government and Indian government to establish a new bilateral program to support entrepreneurs from both countries, through a market access program. The program is jointly funded by respective ministries from Canada and India, under the aegis of the Canada-India S&T Agreement. 

Zone Startups India has been at the forefront of operating niche initiatives, empoWer – to accelerate startups founded by women entrepreneurs; and the Next BIG Idea Contest, to provide soft-landing in Toronto and thereby North American market access to Indian startups.

Justin Trudeau in India: Canadian PM may fail to improve ties, but will bag minority votes back home

It may seem peculiar that the granular details of a high-level visit, usually sorted out well before a Head of State boards the flight to the host nation, were left hanging even during the visit. This confusion, however, reflects the state of India-Canada bilateral relationship, which is fallen into a state of disrepair and mistrust since Trudeau’s Liberal Party came to power in 2015.

The Stephen Harper-era warmth has been replaced by a chill that Trudeau and his entourage may have felt despite arriving in India at the onset of summer. If two of the strongest democracies in the world still find themselves at odds, it owes largely to the disturbing course Canada’s domestic politics seems to have taken.

Recap: Photos of Justin Trudeau’s trip to Sabarmati Ashram and Akshardham Temple in Gujarat with his family

Canadian prime minister tweets about strong people-to-people relations and cultural ties between Canada and India

The friendship between Canada and India is bolstered by strong people-to-people and cultural ties, and a long history of cooperation in many areas, including education: https://t.co/ZmdSwToUEI 🇨🇦🇮🇳

— CanadianPM (@CanadianPM) February 19, 2018

Recap: Amarinder Singh’s contentious history with Canada govt continues, but is a thaw on cards?

On Sunday, Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau kicked off a week-long trip to India by taking his family to visit the Taj Mahal. Trudeau, who is on his first visit to India since taking office in 2015, is slated to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi this week an effort to expand trade between the two countries, as well as cooperation in the fields of energy, education and infrastructure.

However, tensions between the two countries continue to simmer over the Khalistan issue, especially between the Canadian government and Punjab chief minister Amarinder Singh.

Indeed, it seemed like Trudeau was attempting to go out of his way to avoid controversy, with a report in the National Herald on the eve of his India visit stating that he would not meet Amarinder during a tour of the Golden Temple on 21 February.

‘US’ problems with H1B visas an opportunity for Canada’

Patricia Koval, the chairperson of the C-IBC, has complimented India for easing visa regulations and said Canada must do likewise. “US’ visa renewal issues are a huge opportunity. I do think India has made fabulous drives on the visa system. Canada now needs to step up and facilitating the transfer of visas,” Koval said.

Educational ties, job creation key areas of collaboration

Patricia Koval, chairperson of C-IBC, spoke about creating more business exchange opportunities. “We have strong educational ties between Canada and India. In terms of job creations, there’s huge benefits in collaborative programmes,” she said.

Risk appetite needs to be enhanced, says Kiran Mazumdar Shaw

Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, the chairperson of Biocon Limited, said both India and Canada have plenty of skill and talent. “We’ve to build a technology corridor between India and Canada. The US has created a good ecosystem with that. The risk appetite created in the US needs to be re emulated in other countries.

Risk sharing can be an interesting model and both in India and Canada can look at that area for getting new innovative ideas to these market. E-commerce is disrupting the world everywhere. Bangalore has a lot of innovation happening and so have many Canadian cities. So I’d suggest the creation of a technology corridor between the two countries. We should be focusing on technology diplomacy,” she said.

Panel to discuss ways of improving India-Canada bilateral trade

India-Canada trade is worth just $8 billion, just a minor fraction of the $100 billion trade between India and the US, Jaspal Bindra, executive chairman of Centrum, said. “The purpose of the CEO panel is to find better business opportunities that can be explored between the two countries,” Bindra said.

(From left to right) Soumen Roy, Canada head, Tata Consultancy Services; Kirsty Duncan, Canada minister for science; Devang Khakar, director, IIT-Bombay; Ipsita Dasgupta, president, Star TV, and Kasi Rao, president, C-IBC

Canada has done a lot to promote science, says Kristy Duncan, minister for science

Kirsty Duncan, minister for science and sport in the Canadian government, recalls it being a difficult time for woman scientists to break through in a male-dominated field like science. “It’s an honour to be in India. I’m here to build on the strong ties between India and Canada. Science is the backbone of innovation. We can think of collaboration on artificial intelligence, healthcare, innovation, etc. Canada started funding AI by the 90s and we kept funding sciences as it matters. Now it’s become mainstream. Everyone knows about Silicon Valley, but there’s also Maple Valley.”

India-Canada collaboration in education sector

Devang Khakar, director of IIT Bombay, said, “We’ve collaborated with Canadian universities. There are a lot of exchange programmes. We are also building a large number of collaborations with Canadian universities. There are a lot of joint research projects going on. We are keen to build a special relationship with the University of Toronto. There’s a great potential to learn a lot.”

Indians increasingly interested in entrepreneurship, says IIT-B director

Devang Khakar, director of IIT-Bombay, spoke of the growing interest in entrepreneurship. “Twenty years ago, there wasn’t much interest in entrepreneurship. But now many are either starting their own companies or working with start-ups. Now there’s more focus towards doing innovative things in areas which were unthinkable in the past. For instance, some of our graduates have worked on something as old as ceiling fans and have won patents for their design. Students are thinking of entrepreneurship from the beginning. We also have a workshop for students in entrepreneurship. I think that this is a trend that is very strong. A lot of support is coming from outside, senior alumni are coming back to start their own companies.”

Companies that they’ve incubated have created over 3,000 jobs, Khakar said. “These new companies are nimble enough to find out needs that are yet to be fulfilled and are coming up with innovative solutions for these issues. They’re not just making copycat products but something innovative,” he added.

Canada a hot destination for Indian students

David Agnew, president of Toronto’s Seneca College, spoke in glowing terms about the higher educational possibilities in Canada for Indian students. “According to Canadian system, we are a college offering diploma and degrees. We have 25,000 full-time students and 10 campuses in the Greater Toronto area. Internationalisation of education is a big topic and we are still a big receiver of international students. In all, 125,000 students from India are studying in Canada. We are focused on developing partnerships in India,” Agnew said.

India and Canada can work on IT sector, says Amarjeet Sohi

“IT companies are of particular interest. We want to see how we can help with Smart City challenges of major urban centres. Problems of transportation, social laws, etc. If we partner wet can find innovative solutions to these issues. The way the challenges work is we call municipality’s to identify problems and then tech is used to solve these problems. We then fund viable projects. This is something that is inspired by Indian Smart City challenges,” says Sohi. 

Input from Nimish Sawant, Tech2

Amarjeet Sohi a Khalistan sympathiser?

According to media reports , Sohi was arrested under the Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act for about 21 months in the late 80s for his alleged links with the Khalistan movement. However, he was released without being charged as no evidence was found against him.

Trudeau-Modi share similar values on economic growth: Sohi

“Economic growth is on the top agenda of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Growth that helps everyone as businesses and individuals. The same values are also shared by Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” says Sohi. 

Input from Nimish Sawant, Tech2

Immense opportunities in Canada, says Sohi

“Every time I come to India it gives me an opportunity to reflect on the time when I was a young man and went to Canada and built my life there. The opportunities Canada has to offer is immense. 1.4 million Indian-Canadians have a strong bond of culture and values,” says Amarjeet Sohi, cabinet minister of Canada. 

Input from Nimish Sawant, Tech2

Amarjeet Sohi of Trudeau cabinet speaks at the event

Input from Nimish Sawant, Tech2

RECAP: Justin Trudeau and his family visited Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar

Paying tribute to Swaminarayan and his life and teachings. PM @JustinTrudeau visits the magnificent Akshardham Mandir in Gandhinagar, an architectural marvel, built from 6,000 metric tons of pink sandstone. pic.twitter.com/zuKfoQEE1i

— Vikas Swarup (@VikasSwarup) February 19, 2018

Banking sector more regulated than other industries, feels SBI executive

“Banking is getting thoroughly regulated than any other industries. Govt policies between the two countries effects business, but the host country regulator is important. The cost of compliance is driving financial institutes out of business. If we drive these businesses out of business, they’re not going to stop doing business but will operate in shadows which is not good,” says Siddharth Sengupta of SBI.

Input from Nimish Sawant, Tech2

‘Need to find India’s policy perspective on food security’

“I won’t day what is the final price of pulses in India. But what I do know is that trade will help food security in India. What we need to find is the Indian policy perspective on Indian farmers and consumers and find the point of connection for global trade,” Gordon Bacon, CEO, Pulse Canada. 

Input from Nimish Sawant, Tech2

Will SBI go from 6 branches to 60?

“We won’t go that big anytime soon as banks does not need physical braches. We need to make a transition from ‘brick and mortar’ to ‘Click and mortar’. We want to have a branch in Calgary region. The diaspora evolves over time and we’ve to be relevant to this. What are he kind of values we can bring to the consumer is what’s important,” says Siddharth Sengupta of SBI. 

Input from Nimish Sawant, Tech2

India has biggest impact on global pulse market, says Gordon Bacon of Pulse Canada

“The global pulse market is influenced not only by the commercial forces of supply and demand (trade) but also by government directions (policy) that can complement but also override commercial market direction. Perhaps no government is having a bigger impact on the pulse industry than the Government of India,” he wrote in an editorial recently.

Prospects of doing business in india is favourable, says Rita-Rose Gagne of Ivanhoe Cambridge

“Prospect of doing business in India had been particularly favorable as the legal process is similar to Canadian common law. English language proficiency is a helping factor. Strong local partners are also important. GST and other reforms have given a more transparent and stable environment which helps us. We invest based on trends, are active in residential projects and so on. Lessons learnt in the last ten years is that you’ve to be patient. India presents a high growth potential along the Aasian markets,” says Rita-Rose Gagne of Ivanhoe Cambridge. 

Input from Nimish Sawant, Tech2

First panel discussion on Indo-Canadian trade ties begins

Rontu Basu, Siddhartha Sengupta, Kashmira Mevavala, Rita Rose-Gagne, Gordon Bacon (Right to Left)

Input from Nimish Sawant, Tech2

Differences have to be source of strength in society: Trudeau
   

Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau said on Monday that heterogeneous society is the new reality of the 21st century and the biggest challenge is to understand how differences can become a source of strength, “something that India and Canada have done fairly well”.

Calling himself a “feminist”, Trudeau also said “we as a society are underperforming” as women are not being given an opportunity to contribute to their full potential. He was addressing students at the prestigious Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad (IIM-A).

Canadian-Indian Business Council CEO Kasi Rao inaugurates event 

Input from Nimish Sawant, Tech2

Candian-Indian Business Council CEO Kasi Rao hails bilateral relations

“SME has been the backbone of our 40 year collaboration. There are lot of untapped areas which need to be focussed on. 130 Indian companies were brought to Canada to increase bilateral trade. Today’s forum is focused on building strong relationships between Indian and Canadian companies. Canada-India foundation also completed 10 years. It was formed to clarify public policy issues between the two countries. They’ve also pioneered the work of connecting the diaspora,” said Kasi Rao, CEO of Canadian-Indian Business Council. 

Inputs from Nimish Sawant, Tech2

Canada-India Mumbai Business Forum begins

The Indo-Canadian Business Chambers will be hosting the business forum where Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is also expected to participate in an armchair discussion along with veteran banker Chanda Kocchar at 3 pm.

Speculation about snub to Trudeau wrong: Govt sources

Prime Minister Narendra Modi not receiving his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau at the airport, a courtesy he extended to some world leaders in the past, has triggered speculation in Canada that it was a snub to him for the rising Sikh radicalism in that country.

However, government sources strongly rejected the speculation, insisting normal diplomatic protocol has been extended to Trudeau, PTI reported. They also expressed surprise over the Canadian side preferring to schedule Trudeau’s official engagements in Delhi at the fag end of the tour as against the normal practice of having bilateral meetings during the first part of such visits.

Justin Trudeau also met with Gujarat CM Vijay Rupani on Monday

Connecting with the State political leadership. Hon'ble Chief Minister of Gujarat @vijayrupanibjp holds talks with PM @JustinTrudeau to advance partnership between Canada and Gujarat pic.twitter.com/IEjsFv84Uw

— Vikas Swarup (@VikasSwarup) February 19, 2018

Justin Trudeau reached Mumbai on Monday evening

From Ahmedabad to Mumbai. Prime Minister @JustinTrudeau is warmly welcomed on arrival at Chhatrapati Shivaji Airport. pic.twitter.com/qO8a5LSSBx

— Vikas Swarup (@VikasSwarup) February 19, 2018

Trudeau to meet industry leaders today in Mumbai

Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau, who arrived in Mumbai on Monday, will on Tuesday meet industry leaders. According to the itinerary posted on Trudeau’s official website, the Canadian prime minister will be meeting N Chandrasekharan of Tata Sons at 9 am before holding discussions with Infosys CEO Salil Parekh and Mahindra Group chairman Anand Mahindra.

Updates for 20 February 2018 begin

Justin Trudeau to meet Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh on 21 February in Amritsar

Canadian Prime Minister #JustinTrudeau to meet Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh on February 21 in Amritsar pic.twitter.com/xsykDQFyPE

— ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2018

A few highlights from the interaction

#TrudeauinIndia #CanadaInIndia | @CanadianPM @JustinTrudeau speaks to @ShereenBhan at a townhall at IIM-Ahmedabad, says he has more in common with Donald Trump than most people believe. Here's more from that interaction. pic.twitter.com/4jbwXIYrjQ

— CNBC-TV18 (@CNBCTV18Live) February 19, 2018

Media is frustrating at times but it’s essential to empower and support it: Trudeau

#TrudeauinIndia #CanadaInIndia | @CanadianPM @JustinTrudeau says he finds the media frustrating at times but it's essential to empower & support media. It fulfils an important duty of telling Govt what it’s doing wrong; an independent media is essential for a successful democracy pic.twitter.com/APAQnnU4LB

— CNBC-TV18 (@CNBCTV18Live) February 19, 2018

I had advantage but I didn’t go near discrimination, sexism that women go through daily: Trudeau

Any comments about how a man looks isn't even an eyelash worth of the systemic discrimination women face. As a man in business & politics I had lots of advantage but I didn't go near discrimination, sexism, superficiality & judgement that women go through daily: #JustinTrudeau pic.twitter.com/dTj02qRFl4

— ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2018

Cynicism is worrisome, says Trudeau

Trudeau says that cynicism is spreading across the world and the way people easily draw lines along communities is deeply worrisome. Hope is important and can usher growth, cynicism telling voting is uncool doesn’t, the Canadian PM says.

Canada always has had a robust immigration system, says Trudeau

Talking about the robust immigration system in Canada, Trudeau says, “More countries need to do more to welcome immigrants not because that is the right thing to do, because refugees who flee the persecution in their country for a better life in another, are extremely grateful to the country that welcomes them. They work very hard and contribute tremendously to the growth of the country that welcomed them. That is the Canadian story.”

Trudeau says Canadians are always excited at the prospect of trade

#TrudeauinIndia #CanadaInIndia | @CanadianPM says open to immigration & trade pic.twitter.com/J97DsLhiFA

— CNBC-TV18 (@CNBCTV18Live) February 19, 2018

Idea of ideal citizen does not rest on surface attributes, says Trudeau

The idea of ideal citizen does not just rest on surface attributes like ethnicity or racism, it is more dependent on shared values that a society subscribes to, says Trudeau. He adds that young people tend to get that kind of openness and they understand how defined you are in your choices.

Trudeau talks of sexism that women face on daily basis

No statement on how a man looks is not even an eyelash-worthy of the kind of sexism that women have to face everyday in various ways, says Trudeau in response to how people commented on his nice hair when he was campaigning.

Canadian PM says he is a feminist and gender balance is a smart choice

If you think that men and women should get equal opportunities, you are a feminist, it is that simple, says Trudeau. He goes onto explain that gender balance in terms of opportunities isn’t the right thing to do but the smart thing to do in terms of growth.

Citizens know when someone is trying to live up to some lofty familial expectation: Trudeau

Citizens are not fools. Citizens can tell whether someone is genuine in their approach or just trying to live up to some lofty familial expectation: Canadian PM #JustinTrudeau at IIM Ahmedabad #Gujarat pic.twitter.com/5BgYWVFHsy

— ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2018

Trudeau says Donald Trump and he are similar in more ways than one

While saying that US president Donald Trump shares similarities with him, Justin Trudeau says their policies are doing well for their economy. Both have an optimistic approach towards the future of investment, he added.

Climate change is essential and Canada has to take the lead: Trudeau

“Canada has enough fossil fuel resources to not be bothered about climate change but that’s not the right path. It is important to take oil resources to market at a reasonable price. It’s important to find a middle ground and move ahead in a responsible way,“Trudeau tells IIM Ahmedabad students.

My choice to enter politics wasn’t just dynastic, says Trudeau

The potential path I was taking going into politics was entirely my own, not necessarily my father’s. The decision was because I had to say certain things to the masses, not just because it was dynastic politics. Politics is unpleasant in certain ways and incredibly rewarding in other ways. Familial expectations isn’t a way to be successful in politics.

Justin Trudeau begins his interview at IIM Ahmedabad

Justin Trudeau to interact with IIM Ahmedabad students shortly

Trudeau to visit Mumbai, Amritsar and New Delhi after winding up Ahmedabad leg

Justin Trudeau will participate in several business roundtables to further promote bilateral trade and investment 

Justin Trudeau signs the register at Ahmedabad’s Sabarmati Ashram

The Canadian prime minister wrote: “A beautiful place of peace, humility and truth, that is as needed today as it ever was.”

His other family members — wife Sophie and children — also signed the register book, reported The Economic Times.

Visuals of Justin Trudeau at Akshardham temple

Paying tribute to Swaminarayan and his life and teachings. PM @JustinTrudeau visits the magnificent Akshardham Mandir in Gandhinagar, an architectural marvel, built from 6,000 metric tons of pink sandstone. pic.twitter.com/zuKfoQEE1i

— Vikas Swarup (@VikasSwarup) February 19, 2018

Trudeau calls Akshardham temple an extraordinary place of peace

#TrudeauInIndia Justine Trudeau meamerised after seeing Akshardham temple. His comment says it.... pic.twitter.com/uYAvtFORZT

— Roxy Gagdekar (@RoxyChhara) February 19, 2018

Justin Trudeau snubbed by Narendra Modi? Too soon to say, because Indian PM has thus far stuck to protocol

Yogi Adityanath’s refusal to meet Trudeau ahead of the Canadian prime minister’s Taj Mahal visit and the uncertainty surrounding whether or not there will be a meeting with Captain Amarinder Singh notwithstanding, it’s too early to call what Modi did (or didn’t do) a snub. We’ll need to wait at least until the duo finally meets in New Delhi.

Justin Trudeau to speak before students at IIM-A

Trudeau will speak at IIM-Ahmedabad later in the day, reported Financial Express . He will speak on “Education and Investment Opportunities” before an audience of students at IIM-A.

Schedule for Justin Trudeau’s visit to Gujarat on Monday

0830 hrs: Emplane for Ahmedabad

1005 hrs: Arrival in Ahmedabad. Will attend a programme in the city

1710 hrs: Emplane for Mumbai

1830 hrs: Arrive Mumbai

Is Justin Trudeau getting snubbed on his India visit?

As has become the norm now, Narendra Modi usually breaks protocol to go to the airport to receive important heads of government. He did it last month for his good friend Benjamin ‘Bibi’ Netanyahu, according to News18 . He famously did it when Barack Obama came to India as chief guest for Republic Day in 2015.

No such welcome was given to Trudeau who is accompanied by his wife Sophie and their three children. The receiving minister was MoS Agriculture Ganjendra Singh, not even External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj or her two deputies Gen VK Singh or MJ Akbar. Modi and Swaraj did not even tweet any welcome message for the Canadian premier.

Justin Trudeau along with his family at Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar

Canadian PM #JustinTrudeau along with his wife Sophie and children Xavier, Hadrien & Ella-Grace at Akshardham Temple in Gandhinagar #Gujarat . pic.twitter.com/M7eWYLCDLh

— ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2018

Justin Trudeau’s India visit could bolster ties, but Canadian PM’s courting of Khalistani elements is causing bitterness

What has caused concern, even annoyance in New Delhi is the Canadian prime minister and his party’s hobnobbing with some who are seen as Khalistani elements. For instance, New Delhi’s hackles were raised in April last year after the Ontario legislature passed a private member’s bill — it was moved by Harinder Malhi and she belongs to Trudeau’s party — that described the 1984 anti-Sikh riots as a “genocide”.

Narendra Modi will not meet Trudeau today

NDTV reported that Narendra Modi is not in Gujarat today and will not meet the Canadian PM today.

More visuals of the Trudeau family at the Sabarmati Ashram

#WATCH: Canadian PM #JustinTrudeau along with his wife Sophie and children Xavier, Hadrien & Ella-Grace at Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. pic.twitter.com/fAAK03R4k7

— ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2018

Justin Trudeau and his family at the Sabarmati Ashram

Candian PM #JustinTrudeau along with his wife Sophie and children Xavier, Hadrien & Ella-Grace at Sabarmati Ashram in Ahmedabad. pic.twitter.com/GfuuuCUZ7t

— ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2018

Justin Trudeau arrives in Gujarat

Welcome to Gujarat Mr Prime Minister! Fabulous traditional welcome accorded to PM @JustinTrudeau, Mrs Sophie Grégoire Trudeau and their family on arrival at Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Airport in Ahmedabad pic.twitter.com/YcLwrSIWUY

— Vikas Swarup (@VikasSwarup) February 19, 2018