New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s arrival in Calgary, Canada, for the G7 Summit marks a significant moment in bilateral relations. This visit, Modi’s first to Canada in a decade, comes amid efforts to repair ties strained by the killing of pro-Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. PM Narendra Modi wasa welcomed by the Canadian officials at the airport in Calgary.
The invitation from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney hints to resetting the relationship, which had plunged to an all-time low following the recall of Indian diplomats from Canada and vice-versa last October. India had accused the Trudeau government of harboring pro-Khalistani elements on Canadian soil.
The G7 Summit, taking place in Kananaskis on June 16-17, is Modi’s sixth consecutive attendance. The summit agenda includes critical global issues such as energy security, technology, and innovation, with a particular focus on the AI-energy nexus and quantum-related issues. Modi will engage in discussions with G7 leaders, representatives from invited outreach countries, and heads of international organisations.
“At the Summit, the Prime Minister will exchange views with leaders of G-7 countries, other invited outreach countries and Heads of International Organisations on crucial global issues, including energy security, technology and innovation, particularly the AI-energy nexus and Quantum-related issues,” the Ministry of External Affairs earlier said.
Beyond the summit discussions, Modi will participate in several bilateral meetings. This visit comes just over a month after India’s Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam attacks.
Carney’s invitation signifies a fresh start for Canada-India relations. With Trudeau’s departure from office and Carney’s assumption of the premiership in March, both countries expressed hope for a renewed partnership based on mutual trust and sensitivity. In recent months, security officials from both nations have resumed contact, paving the way for the potential appointment of new high commissioners.
The economic dimension of the relationship is noteworthy. Bilateral trade in goods in 2024 reached 8.6 billion dolllars, and trade in services amounted to 14.3 billion dollars. While Modi’s 2015 visit elevated bilateral ties to a strategic partnership, this summit presents an opportunity to further strengthen this relationship and explore pathways to re-establish trust and cooperation. The presence of other global leaders at the summit, including US President Donald Trump, who is also scheduled to meet with Carney, provides a backdrop for broader geopolitical discussions. This G7 Summit, marking the 50th anniversary, provides a key platform for India to re-engage with Canada and contribute to discussions on critical global issues.
