Following a time of considerable diplomatic strain, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Canada for the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, marked a turning point in India-Canada ties.
In his bilateral discussion with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance and breadth of the two nations’ partnership, pointing to shared democratic principles and reciprocal investments as its cornerstones. He emphasized that both countries, committed to democratic principles, must cooperate in order to advance democracy and humanity on a worldwide scale.
In addition to congratulating PM Carney on his recent election win, PM Modi expressed hope for increased collaboration in a number of areas. He pointed out that there are significant Canadian investments in India and Indian investments in Canada, demonstrating how the two nations’ economic interests are intertwined.
Prime Minister Carney responded by extending a hearty welcome to PM Modi and recognizing India’s increasing global leadership and influence in tackling important issues including energy security, energy transition, artificial intelligence, and fighting terrorism and transnational repression. Carney’s comments emphasized the significance of India’s participation in the G7 and the common dedication to working together to address global issues.
This high-level interaction took place in the midst of recent diplomatic tensions brought on by Canadian claims that India was involved in the 2023 murder of NIA-designated terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. Senior diplomats from both sides were expelled during the diplomatic stalemate that resulted from India’s vehement rejection of these accusations. India continuously expressed worries over extremism and anti-Indian actions on Canadian soil throughout this time, and it urged Canadian authorities to take decisive action to stop these elements.
India’s acting high commissioner was one of the dignitaries in attendance at the ceremonial welcome ceremony held at Calgary airport to honor PM Modi’s arrival in Canada. Part of a larger three-nation official tour that started in Cyprus and will end in Croatia, this visit is his first to Canada in ten years and his sixth consecutive G7 Summit attendance.
PM Modi is expected to take part in talks about the future of energy security during the summit, with an emphasis on investment, infrastructure, technology, and diversification to guarantee accessibility and affordability in a world that is changing quickly. In keeping with India’s continued commitment to represent developing countries on the international scene, he also reaffirmed his intention to highlight the Global South’s priorities.
This high-profile encounter serves as evidence of India and Canada’s increasing diplomatic interaction, which suggests a possible thaw in relations and a shared determination to resolve historical grievances while promoting democracy, security, and economic growth.
