Recent developments in Canadian-Indian relations have centered around Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney's invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the upcoming G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta. This move signals a potential thaw in relations that have been strained since 2023.

The invitation comes after a period of diplomatic tension that began when former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleged the potential involvement of Indian government agents in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canada-based Khalistan separatist leader. These allegations led to a significant downturn in relations, with both countries expelling diplomats. India has consistently rejected these charges as "absurd" and "motivated."

Despite the previous tensions, Mark Carney, who assumed office as Prime Minister in March 2025, has emphasized the importance of the India-Canada relationship and expressed a commitment to resolving differences through "mutual respect." The invitation to PM Modi for the G7 summit is seen as a significant step in this direction.

PM Modi acknowledged the invitation on social media, expressing his gratitude to PM Carney and stating that India and Canada would work together with "renewed vigour." He also conveyed that he is looking forward to meeting Carney at the summit.

Carney has defended his decision to invite Modi, stating that India, as the world's fifth-largest economy and most populous nation, is a crucial player in global supply chains and that its presence at the G7 discussions is essential. He also noted that the decision to invite India was discussed among G7 countries. Crucially, Carney stated that he and Modi agreed to continued law enforcement dialogue and discussions addressing security concerns.

The invitation has been met with mixed reactions. While it is broadly viewed as a positive step towards improving bilateral relations, some members of Canada's Sikh community have expressed condemnation.

India has been invited to G7 summits since 2019 and has attended regularly, barring 2020 when the summit was cancelled. PM Modi has actively participated in the G7 outreach sessions, engaging with world leaders on global issues.

The upcoming G7 summit presents an opportunity for PM Modi and PM Carney to engage in direct discussions, address outstanding concerns, and chart a course for a more constructive and mutually beneficial relationship between Canada and India.