PM Modi to Miss G7 Summit in Canada for First Time in Six Years
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to attend the upcoming Group of Seven (G7) summit scheduled from June 15 to 17, 2025, in Alberta, Canada. This will mark the first occasion in six years that PM Modi will not participate in this key gathering of world leaders.
Absence Linked to Diplomatic Strains and Security Concerns
According to Indian officials, PM Modi has not received a formal invitation to the summit. Even if invited, it is widely believed that he would decline to travel due to strained bilateral relations between India and Canada, ongoing tensions over pro-Khalistan separatist activities, and potential security risks.
A Canadian G7 spokesperson has neither confirmed nor denied the issuance of an invitation to PM Modi. However, Indian authorities suggest that any last-minute invitation would face logistical hurdles and concerns about possible disruptions by Sikh separatist groups residing in Canada.
Background of Bilateral Relations Deterioration
Relations between India and Canada have experienced a sharp downturn since last year, stemming from accusations made by then-Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau against the Indian government over alleged involvement in the killing of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. India rejected the allegations and criticized the absence of concrete evidence, leading to a diplomatic stalemate and mutual expulsion of senior diplomats.
Under current Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, efforts appear underway to restore diplomatic ties by focusing on trade and cooperation. Although Carney has not directly addressed the Nijjar case, India hopes for a more constructive approach compared to the previous administration and remains open to engagement founded on mutual trust.
Security and Diplomatic Safety Concerns
India has called on Ottawa to enhance the protection of Indian diplomats on Canadian soil and to take stronger action against extremist and secessionist groups operating within the country. This remains a crucial point in bilateral talks and influences India's stance on official engagements.
G7 Summit Guest List and India's Global Role
While Canada has yet to officially announce the full list of G7 guests, reports indicate that leaders from Australia, Ukraine, South Africa, and Brazil have received invitations. PM Modi's previous attendance at the G7 summits since 2019 signaled India's growing influence in global policymaking, especially in addressing transnational challenges.
His anticipated absence in 2025 underscores the current diplomatic difficulties but also reflects the complexities of international relations amid domestic and geopolitical concerns.
