PM Modi G7 Canada Visit marks a major diplomatic shift as India seeks to reset ties with Ottawa after the 2023 Khalistani controversy. Explore key highlights, summit goals, and India’s growing global stature.
First Visit Since 2015 Amid Tense Diplomatic Backdrop
Prime Minister Narendra Modi touched down at Calgary International Airport on Tuesday, embarking on the PM Modi G7 Canada Visit—his first trip to the country since 2015. This pivotal journey comes in the wake of strained India-Canada relations, which deteriorated sharply following the killing of pro-Khalistani figure Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2023. Invited by newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, the visit underscores a renewed effort to mend frayed diplomatic ties.
The G7 Summit, being held in the picturesque Kananaskis village in Alberta, is drawing leaders from the world’s most influential economies: the U.S., U.K., France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Canada, and the EU. Organizations like the United Nations, the World Bank, and the IMF are present at the venue.
Operation Sindoor and Strategic Timelines
After the Pahalagam attack and Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Modi is at the G7 summit. Against this backdrop, the Prime Minister’s short but high-profile 23-hour tour is packed with strategic bilateral meetings and participation in G7 Outreach Sessions.
Before leaving, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the democratic values that India and Canada share, saying, “As dynamic democracies connected by strong people-to-people connections, India and Canada will collaborate with renewed vigor, guided by mutual respect and shared interests.”
Diplomatic Reset: Carney’s Outreach to New Delhi
Though India is not a permanent member of the G7, PM Modi G7 Canada visit marks the fifth consecutive invitation extended to him since 2019. The outreach by PM Mark Carney—a political newcomer and former central banker—suggests Ottawa is keen to reset ties. Carney’s invitation came just months after replacing Justin Trudeau, whose handling of the Nijjar affair led to tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions and a freeze in dialogue.
In October 2023, India withdrew its high commissioner and several diplomats after allegations by the Trudeau administration linked Indian officials to Nijjar’s assassination. India countered by accusing the previous Canadian government of harboring pro-Khalistani elements and compromising bilateral trust.
Security Talks and Trade Numbers Indicate Cautious Optimism
As part of efforts to normalize relations ahead of the PM Modi G7 Canada Visit, security agencies in both nations resumed communications earlier this year. The possibility of appointing new high commissioners is also being explored. The Ministry of External Affairs views the Modi-Carney meeting as an opportunity to “exchange views and explore pathways” for rebuilding confidence.
Economically, the India-Canada trade relationship remains robust. Bilateral commerce in goods, which was almost evenly divided between imports and exports, totaled USD 8.6 billion in 2024. Services trade soared to USD 14.3 billion, reflecting the significant role the service sector plays in both economies.
Global Stage: Rising Tensions and Shared Goals
The PM Modi G7 Canada Visit takes place against the backdrop of a volatile geopolitical climate. The summit will deliberate on escalating hostilities between Iran and Israel, the continuing Russia-Ukraine conflict, and U.S.-triggered trade disputes fueled by President Donald Trump’s tariff policies.
India’s inclusion, despite its non-member status, reflects its rising diplomatic influence. The summit’s Outreach Sessions will serve as platforms for PM Modi to voice India’s perspectives on global peace, economic resilience, and South Asia’s security environment.
PM Modi G7 Canada Visit marks a crucial step toward mending ties and strengthening India’s role in global diplomatic affairs.
