Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, from June 15-17, following a personal invitation from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. This would be Mr. Modi’s sixth consecutive G7 appearance as a guest leader, highlighting India’s rising prominence in global affairs. His participation could also be signaling a potential thaw in India-Canada relations.
The invitation, extended during a phone call on June 6, comes after a period of strained ties between New Delhi and Ottawa, primarily due to Canada’s 2023 allegations linking India to the killing of Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has firmly rejected these claims, calling them unfounded. Prime Ministers Carney and Modi discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation, with a focus on law enforcement and mutual respect, paving the way for Modi’s participation.
‘Pleased to connect with PM Mark Carney,’ PM Modi wrote on X. ‘India and Canada, as vibrant democracies, share deep ties. I look forward to productive discussions at the G7 Summit to advance our shared goals for global peace and prosperity.’
The G7, comprising Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the US, will address issues like climate change, economic stability, and digital innovation. India, invited alongside nations like Brazil, Australia, and Ukraine, is expected to advocate for the Global South, emphasizing equitable growth and sustainable development.
PM Modi’s agenda will likely focus on energy security, technology partnerships, and resilient supply chains, reflecting India’s role as the world’s fifth-largest economy.
Mr. Carney underscored India’s significance, stating, ‘With its economic might and strategic importance, India’s voice is critical at the G7.’ He also highlighted ongoing progress in bilateral talks, particularly on security cooperation, as a key factor in extending the invitation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit is a diplomatic milestone, but groups such as the Canadian Sikh Coalition, have criticized the invitation, citing the unresolved Nijjar case, where four Indian nationals face charges. Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand defended the move, saying, ‘Engaging with India does not diminish our commitment to justice and the rule of law.’
In India, the invitation has been celebrated as a nod to PM Modi’s global leadership. ‘PM Modi’s presence at the G7 reaffirms India’s growing clout,’ said a senior official in the Ministry of External Affairs.
Analysts view the summit as an opportunity for Mr. Modi to strengthen ties with G7 nations and advance India’s strategic interests, particularly in trade and technology.