Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper has said Canada and India must forge stronger trade, investment and educational ties to build a more productive friendship.<br/><br/>In a message to a function organised by Panorama India to commemorate India's 61st Republic Day celebration at Toronto on Monday, Mr Harper said Canada stands besides India as a steadfast and faithful friend. <br/><br/>The Prime Minister's message that was read by lawmaker Bob Dechert said the two countries must forge stronger ties in the field of trade, investment and education.<br/><br/>India's Consul General in Toronto, Preeti Saran said with two-way trade approaching 5 billion US dollars, Indo-Canada relations have strengthened over the past few years and added that both countries were committed to fight terrorism.