India and Canada will work together to fight terrorism, extremism : Narendra Modi

During his  joint briefing with the visiting Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau after bilateral talks between the two countries, Modi said : " I and Prime Minister Trudeau have agreed to jointly fight terrorism and extrmism. Indian and Canadian security advisors had met earlier and finalised a framework for cooperation on countering terrorism and violent extremism."

He said terrorism and extremism are "dangerous" for democratic and pluralistic states like India and Canada.

"Terrorism and extremism and dangerous for democratic and pluralistic societies like India and Canada. Our coming together is important for fighting such forces."

"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...those who challenge the sovereignty and unity of India and Canada will not be tolerated," Modi said.

He also said India and Canada have similar thoughts when it comes to  the proliferation of North Korea, safety and peace in the Indo-Pacific region and independence of democratic institutions in Maldives.

Modi said,  "Prime Minister Trudeau and I exchanged our view on global issues. We discussed in detail the situation of Afghanistan. It is evident and true that the government and the people of Afghanistan need support in tackling the menace of terrorism and in establishing a peaceful atmosphere in the country."

PM Modi said an MoU on higher education has been renewed between India and Canada. This will benefit the students of both nations; and those travelling to and from India, he adds.

Modi  said India has attached a high importance to pursuing its strategic partnership with Canada. "Our ties are based on democracy, pluralism, the supremety of law and the mutual interaction."

.Addressing the press briefing,  Trudeau said : “we share not only rich a history but a set of values that encourage a natural friendship between our two countries.”

Trudeau further stressed the need to expand India Canada trade and commercial ties in his joint briefing with PM Modi at Hyderabad House, New Delhi on Friday.

“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,” Trudeau said.

Earlier, Modi and his Canadian counterpart inked six MoUs, after holding bilateral talks on a wide range of topics. Their talks a range of issues including terrorism and extremism, as well as ways to strengthen ties in trade, education and defence.

Trudeau was given a ceremonial reception at the Rashtrapati Bhavan, where he was received by President Ram Nath Kovind, PM Modi and members of the Union Cabinet. He later paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Rajghat. He also held talks with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj.

Trudeau said  India is a natural partner and a trusted friend. "Modi and I welcome cooperation in several sectors," he said. He adds that India is the second largest source of students in Canadian universities."

He said the two countries are similar in terms of democratic and cultural practices as well.

A statement issued by the Ministry of External Affairs said  Modi and his Canadian counterpart held discussions on strengthening cooperation in trade and investment, energy, education, healthcare, IT, start up, science and technology, defence and security, tourism and people-to-people contacts.