Both countries explore opportunities in defence manufacturing, military-technical exchanges and research as they seek to deepen strategic ties.
India and Canada held their inaugural Defence Dialogue virtually on November 3, 2026, marking a significant step toward strengthening bilateral defence and strategic cooperation between the two countries.
The meeting was co-chaired by Dr. Amit Telang, Joint Secretary (International Cooperation) at India’s Ministry of Defence, and Scott Millar, Assistant Deputy Minister (Policy) at Canada’s Department of National Defence.
During the discussions, officials exchanged perspectives on their respective defence policies, strategic priorities and regional security challenges while identifying opportunities to expand cooperation in key areas.
Defence industrial collaboration emerged as a major focus of the dialogue, with both sides exploring possibilities for closer engagement in defence manufacturing and related industries.
Military-technical cooperation and defence research and development were also identified as priority areas for future collaboration, reflecting the two countries’ interest in strengthening technological capabilities and defence partnerships.
The discussions reinforced commitments made by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in their joint statement issued on March 2, 2026, which outlined a shared intention to expand bilateral defence and strategic engagement.
Officials also reviewed potential initiatives and specific measures aimed at advancing the partnership, emphasizing the importance of sustained cooperation across multiple defence sectors.
In addition to bilateral matters, representatives exchanged views on regional and global security developments, highlighting opportunities for continued strategic dialogue.
Both countries agreed to maintain communication and pursue further discussions on the proposals identified during the meeting.
The inaugural dialogue represents another step in efforts by New Delhi and Ottawa to broaden their bilateral relationship through closer defence cooperation, technological collaboration and sustained engagement on shared strategic priorities.
