New Delhi: For the first time in six years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to attend the G7 summit, which is scheduled to be held in Alberta, Canada, from June 15 to June 17, according to a person familiar with the matter.
The summit is expected to address critical global issues such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the situation in West Asia.
Reportedly, Ottawa has not yet extended an official invitation to India so far. In light of strained diplomatic relations between the two nations, the Prime Minister may opt to skip the summit, especially as such high-level visits typically require significant groundwork and mutual cooperation.
India-Canada relations took a sharp downturn following former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s allegations in 2023 linking Indian agents to the killing of pro-Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar.
Glimpse of hope after leadership change
The election of Liberal Party leader Mark Carney in April has sparked some optimism about a possible reset in India-Canada relations. However, assessments in New Delhi indicate that there has been no clear assurance from the new Canadian government on addressing India’s concerns over pro-Khalistani activities in the country.
Furthermore, neither nation has taken concrete steps to restore full diplomatic ties. In October 2023, India recalled its High Commissioner and five other diplomats after Ottawa implicated Indian authorities in the Nijjar case. India also expelled a significant number of Canadian diplomats in response.
“For a prime ministerial visit, a lot of groundwork is necessary, especially considering the current state of bilateral relations,” said one official. Security concerns also remain a significant factor, according to another source. Recently, both countries have signaled a willingness to resume diplomatic engagement and are reportedly considering the appointment of new High Commissioners.
India-Canada relations: still unpredictable
Trudeau’s exit has been viewed by India as an opportunity to mend bilateral ties. India has long accused Canada of tolerating pro-Khalistani extremism. His departure raised hopes for a relationship built on “mutual trust and sensitivity.”
In March, India’s Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson remarked: “The downturn in India-Canada relations was caused by the licence that was given to extremist and secessionist elements in that country.”
India’s participation in the G7
The Group of Seven (G7) is an informal bloc of advanced democracies that convenes annually to coordinate global economic policy and address other pressing international issues. The member countries include the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Canada, and Japan. Canada currently holds the G7 presidency and is hosting this year’s summit.
In 2024, India participated in the G7 summit in Italy. Prime Minister Modi attended the G7 for the fifth time last year. He also participated in the 2023 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, and the 2022 summit held at Schloss Elmau in southern Germany.
