PM Modi's Return to Canada: A Significant Diplomatic Moment
Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched down at Calgary International Airport on Tuesday to attend the G7 Summit held in Kananaskis, Alberta. This marks his first visit to Canada since 2015, following a formal invitation from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. The trip carries added weight as it comes after a period of strained relations between the two nations.
The G7 Summit: Global Leaders Converge
The two-day summit brings together leaders from seven of the world's most advanced economies—the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Canada, and Japan—along with representatives from the European Union and key international organizations, including the United Nations, World Bank, and International Monetary Fund.
This forum provides a platform for dialogue on critical global issues, including geopolitical tensions, economic challenges, and security concerns.
PM Modi’s Engagements at the Summit
- June 17: Arrival in Calgary and participation in the G7 Outreach Welcome session.
- Evening bilateral meetings with various international leaders.
- June 18: Participation in G7 Outreach Sessions and additional bilateral discussions.
- Departure to Zagreb, Croatia, later that day.
Repairing India-Canada Relations
This visit is a pivotal step in mending the delicate diplomatic ties that soured after the controversial death of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2023. The episode led to a significant diplomatic fallout—both countries recalled diplomats and exchanged accusations over alleged involvement.
With Mark Carney’s ascent to the Canadian premiership in March, there is a fresh impetus toward rebuilding trust. The invitation extended to PM Modi is widely seen as a clear signal of Canada's intent to restore cordial relations based on mutual respect and shared democratic values.
In recent months, security dialogue has resumed, and talks around appointing new high commissioners indicate warming ties. New Delhi sees the upcoming meeting as a critical space to explore avenues for strengthening strategic cooperation.
Bilateral Trade Highlights
India and Canada share robust economic interactions. In 2024, their bilateral trade in goods hit USD 8.6 billion, nearly balanced between Indian exports (USD 4.2 billion) and imports (USD 4.4 billion). Trade in services was even more substantial at USD 14.3 billion, with a noticeable surplus favoring Canadian exports.
Both nations elevated their relationship to a strategic partnership during Modi’s last visit in 2015, underscoring the importance of their cooperation.
The Wider G7 Agenda in a Complex Global Landscape
As the world navigates increasing geopolitical instability, the summit’s focus extends to pressing concerns like the Russia-Ukraine conflict, escalating tensions in the Middle East, and economic friction triggered by trade disputes and shifting alliances.
This gathering is a critical platform for world leaders to align on collective responses to these challenges and reinforce commitments to global stability and prosperity.
