Universities Canada will lead a delegation of 21 Canadian university presidents to India from February 2 to 6, marking a significant step in the reset of bilateral relations between the two countries as negotiations begin toward a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
The five-day mission is aimed at strengthening research collaboration, expanding industry partnerships and deepening academic exchange between Canada and India. It builds on the Canadian government’s recently announced $1.7-billion research and talent strategy and aligns with the New Roadmap for Canada–India relations unveiled in October 2025.
The delegation, representing universities from across Canada, will engage with leaders from India’s higher education sector, government and industry in Goa, New Delhi and Gujarat International Finance Tech-City (GIFT City). Discussions are expected to focus on joint research initiatives, academic mobility and sustainable models of transnational education.
“Canada and India have a long history of collaboration in the education sector,” said Christopher Cooter, High Commissioner of Canada to the Republic of India. “The visit by Canadian university presidents is a big step in our renewed collaboration on research and education initiatives, as guided by the New Roadmap for Canada–India relations.”
Indian officials have also framed the visit as a signal of long-term commitment. “Education is a cornerstone of the India-Canada partnership, strengthening people-to-people ties and advancing collaboration in research, innovation and sustainable development,” said Dinesh K. Patnaik, High Commissioner of India to Canada. “The visit of Canadian university presidents marks an important step in deepening academic cooperation and advancing a forward-looking agenda for enhanced India-Canada collaboration.”
Universities Canada said the mission highlights the role of academic institutions in translating shared national priorities into practical outcomes. “Universities are essential to building the global partnerships that create economic growth and opportunity,” said Gabriel Miller, president and CEO of Universities Canada. “As Canada and India renew their vitally important relationship, this mission reflects and advances our commitment to create lasting, shared success for both of our countries.”
The delegation is supported by a contribution from CanExport Associations, underscoring a coordinated effort by government, universities and industry to strengthen international collaboration in ways that deliver tangible economic and social benefits.
The timing of the visit is notable, as India remains Canada’s largest source of international students. According to data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the number of Indian students studying in Canada rose from 31,920 in 2015 to 278,005 in 2023 — an increase of 770% over eight years.
As both governments seek to rebuild trust and expand cooperation, education and research are emerging as key pillars of a renewed Canada–India partnership.
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