Canadian PM Highlights India's Strategic Role at Upcoming G7 Summit
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney recently unveiled the rationale behind inviting India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the G7 Summit scheduled later this month in Alberta. Acknowledging India’s position as the world’s fifth-largest economy and a pivotal player in global supply chains, Carney emphasized the importance of including India in conversations on pressing issues like energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals.
A Shift Toward Renewed Indo-Canadian Ties
Carney’s move represents a notable step toward resetting diplomatic relations between Canada and India, which had experienced a downturn during the tenure of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Relations had been strained after Trudeau’s 2023 allegation of potential Indian government involvement in the killing of a Canada-based Khalistan separatist, an accusation India firmly dismissed as "absurd" and politically motivated.
When questioned about India's possible involvement in the incident, Carney refrained from speculation, citing the ongoing advanced legal processes in Canada. However, he confirmed that Canada and India have committed to continued law enforcement dialogue, though specifics regarding cooperation on the Nijjar investigation remain undisclosed.
PM Modi Confirms His Participation
Responding swiftly, PM Modi confirmed his attendance at the G7 summit. He congratulated Carney on his electoral victory and expressed optimism about strengthening India-Canada relations, underscoring shared democratic values and mutual respect.
“Glad to receive a call from Prime Minister Mark J Carney of Canada. Congratulated him on his recent election victory and thanked him for the invitation to the G7 Summit in Kananaskis later this month. As vibrant democracies bound by deep people-to-people ties, India and Canada will work together with renewed vigour, guided by mutual respect and shared interests. Look forward to our meeting at the Summit,” Modi stated in a social media post.
India’s Continued Presence on the Global Stage
Typically, G7 host nations invite select guest countries or outreach partners. Canada’s invitations this year also include Ukraine and Australia. Since 2019, India has been consistently invited to every G7 Summit, with PM Modi attending each one despite the 2020 summit’s cancellation due to the pandemic.
Carney’s decision to invite India signals recognition of its growing influence and relevance in tackling global challenges and marks a promising turn in bilateral relations.
