The North News
Chandigarh, June 7
The upcoming G7 Summit in Kananaskis could mark a turning point in the strained relationship between India and Canada. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s decision to attend the summit, following a personal invitation from Canada’s newly elected Prime Minister Mark Carney, signals a potential thaw after a period of deep diplomatic frost.
The deterioration of bilateral ties under former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had left relations at a historic low. Trudeau’s perceived alignment with Sikh separatist elements — particularly in the wake of the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar — led to unprecedented tensions, with New Delhi accusing Ottawa of harbouring individuals linked to terrorism.
Carney’s invitation to Modi, and Modi’s acceptance, therefore come not only as a diplomatic gesture but as an overture towards rebuilding trust. The fact that Prime Minister Modi publicly acknowledged the call and extended congratulations to Carney suggests a willingness to move forward — cautiously, but purposefully.
In their conversation, both leaders reaffirmed the importance of people-to-people ties. With a sizeable and politically active Indian diaspora in Canada — particularly from Punjab — this relationship has always had a social and economic depth that goes beyond official rhetoric. Indians in Canada have not only contributed to the economy but also played a vital role in shaping Canadian politics.
“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,” Prime Minister Modi wrote in his post on X.
Carney, by choosing to depart from the Trudeau era’s combative posturing and opening dialogue with India, is signalling a reset. The G7 Summit, therefore, offers more than a photo opportunity — it provides a chance to recalibrate the bilateral equation. While past wounds cannot be erased overnight, this renewed engagement could pave the way for a more stable, respectful partnership.
In a world increasingly defined by geopolitical complexity, democracies like India and Canada must find common ground. The G7 Summit might just be the place where that effort begins again.
