The President Pranab Mukherjee today stressed the need for cooperation between India and Canada in the fields of energy, mineral resources, and infrastructure and food security. The Canadian Prime Minister, Mr. Stephen Harper today called on Mr. Mukherjee in New Delhi.

In the meeting the President said that both the countries share fundamental values as two inclusive democracies are wedded to federalism, pluralism, individual liberty and human rights. He also emphasised to encourage more investment in the field of infrastructure.

The President said cooperation with Canada in the field of agriculture is crucial for India’s food security as India imports 40 percent of its pulses and 25 percent of its potash requirements from Canada. On this occasion, the Canadian Prime Minister welcomed the President’s views and said there is a need to focus on few areas and deepen the engagement between the two countries.

He specially lauded the cooperation between India and Canada within the G-20 and said many important achievements have been made by the G-20 due to the joint leadership of the two countries.