Holt hopeful for trade deal with India

The premier of New Brunswick is confident a trade deal can be reached between Canada and India.

Susan Holt took part in a trade mission to India, joining Prime Minister Mark Carney.

“I think the conditions are there and we’re seeing a lot of receptivity from the Indian market and from the Canadian market,” Holt told media in Mumbai Friday.

She said it’s the best interests of all involved to establish these agreements to demonstrate the stability of the relationship.

“The commitment to the long term that will help reassure everyone that these relations are on the right track and they’re there for the long haul.”

Holt was asked if New Brunswick had the capacity to get its goods out to the rest of the world.

“Absolutely,” was the premier’s simple answer.

She went on to say the Port of Saint John can get a container from Saint John to India in 15 days.

“It’s not a problem for us to move the goods that we produce and some of the products to one of the largest and fastest-growing economies in the world,” Holt said.

The spectre of Donald Trump was also present. A reporter asked if Holt would have participated in the trip if not for the American president.

“New Brunswick set up offices in India through … Opportunities New Brunswick about three years ago,” Holt said. “So, before the Trump threat of tariffs was on the table because we saw a modernizing economy, a growing economy, and we already had a relationship from a people perspective.”