PM Mark Carney invites India’s Narendra Modi to G7 Summit, marking a thaw in ties after last year’s diplomatic row.
Diplomatic Outreach Marks New Chapter
Prime Minister Mark Carney extended a formal invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, later this month. The invitation was conveyed during their first official phone conversation on Friday, representing a significant diplomatic gesture as both leaders seek to move beyond recent tensions between Ottawa and New Delhi.
Summit Invitation and Its Timing
The invitation arrives just over a week before the G7 Summit, scheduled for June 15-17. Diplomatic circles had been rife with speculation about whether Modi, who has attended the last five G7 Summits, would be included amid strained bilateral relations. The confirmation of his attendance signals India’s continued role in global economic and security discussions and reflects Canada’s intent to re-engage India at the highest level.
Leaders’ Statements and Public Messaging
Following the call, Prime Minister Modi publicly acknowledged the invitation, congratulating Carney on his recent electoral victory and expressing optimism about renewed cooperation. “As vibrant democracies bound by deep people-to-people ties, India and Canada will work together with renewed vigour, guided by mutual respect and shared interests,” Modi stated in a social media post, confirming his participation at the summit.
Context: Resetting Strained Relations
This outreach follows a period of diplomatic friction, triggered last year by allegations from Carney’s predecessor, Justin Trudeau, concerning Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Both nations had since downgraded diplomatic ties and expelled diplomats. Carney’s election has raised hopes for a reset, with his government signaling a willingness to rebuild trust and expand cooperation, particularly in trade and investment.
Broader Diplomatic Engagements
Carney’s call to Modi came a day after his conversation with Chinese Premier Li Qiang, underlining Canada’s broader strategy to strengthen ties with key global players. The Canadian Prime Minister’s Office highlighted the importance of regular engagement and open communication channels with both India and China as part of Ottawa’s renewed foreign policy approach.
Looking Ahead: Bilateral and Multilateral Prospects
Modi’s participation at the G7 is expected to pave the way for bilateral meetings, including with U.S. President Donald Trump, as India and the U.S. negotiate a new trade agreement. Both India and Canada are also preparing to appoint new high commissioners, a move seen as another step toward normalizing relations. Security concerns remain, particularly regarding potential protests by Khalistani elements during Modi’s visit, but both governments have resumed contact between security agencies to manage such challenges.
Conclusion
The invitation and Modi’s acceptance mark a pivotal moment in India-Canada relations, with both leaders signaling a commitment to mutual respect and shared interests. As the G7 Summit approaches, the world will be watching for signs of lasting rapprochement and enhanced cooperation between two of the world’s largest democracies.
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