PM Modi Receives Warm Welcome at G7 Summit in Kananaskis
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived at the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, where Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney personally welcomed him. Modi attends the summit as a special invitee, highlighting Canada's efforts to strengthen ties beyond the traditional G7 powers.
Key Bilateral Meetings Shape Global Dialogues
Shortly after his arrival, PM Modi held a productive bilateral with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz. In addition, Modi's schedule included important pull-aside discussions with Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum and South Korea's President Lee Jae-myung.
Deepening India-Mexico Relations
The first-ever meeting between Modi and President Sheinbaum was marked by congratulations on her historic election victory. Modi acknowledged Mexico's support in India's anti-terrorism efforts and extended a formal invitation for her to visit India.
Both leaders explored avenues for enhanced collaboration in sectors such as trade, pharmaceuticals, science and technology, digital innovation, as well as cutting-edge fields like semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing. Cultural exchanges and increasing tourism were also highlighted as ways to strengthen people-to-people connections.
Expanding the India-South Korea Special Strategic Partnership
During discussions with President Lee Jae-myung, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation. Their agenda covered trade, emerging technologies, green hydrogen, shipbuilding, and cultural exchanges, along with addressing regional and global challenges.
Other Important Interactions
Modi also engaged with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, emphasizing continued collaboration across continents.
Focus on Global South and Emerging Technologies
Ahead of the summit, PM Modi emphasized the importance of addressing global issues with a focus on the priorities of the Global South. Discussions are set to include energy security, technological innovation, artificial intelligence, and quantum technologies.
Context: India-Canada Relations and Diplomatic Reset
This visit marks PM Modi's first to Canada in a decade and his sixth consecutive G7 participation. It follows an invitation from PM Carney, who assumed office in March following Justin Trudeau's resignation.
Relations between India and Canada had been strained due to tensions surrounding the killing of pro-Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India had previously recalled diplomats and accused the Trudeau government of supporting separatist elements, while Canada alleged Indian involvement in Nijjar's death. Since then, diplomatic channels have reopened, aiming to rebuild trust.
The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted both nations as vibrant democracies, noting the Modi-Carney interaction as a significant step in restoring bilateral relations.
Trade, Immigration, and Diaspora Ties
Trade between India and Canada reached $8.6 billion in 2024, underlining robust economic connections. Canada is home to approximately 1.8 million people of Indian origin, including nearly one million Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). Despite recent immigration challenges, Indian students remain a vital presence.
Summit Significance
The 51st G7 Summit, ongoing since June 16, includes discussions on pressing global challenges. PM Modi's participation shines a light on India's role in shaping international cooperation and technology partnerships.
