Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Canada for the G7 Summit marks a significant moment in the evolving relationship between India and Canada. Arriving in Kananaskis, Alberta, on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, PM Modi was welcomed by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, signaling a potential thaw in relations that had been strained in recent years. This visit, PM Modi's first to Canada in a decade, underscores the importance both nations place on addressing global challenges and revitalizing their bilateral ties.
At the G7 Summit, PM Modi is expected to engage in discussions with world leaders on critical global issues, including energy security, technology and innovation, with a particular focus on the AI-energy nexus and quantum-related issues. A key theme of PM Modi's participation is highlighting the priorities of the Global South, ensuring that the concerns and perspectives of developing nations are addressed in international dialogues. This commitment aligns with India's increasing role as a leading voice for developing countries on the world stage.
On the sidelines of the summit, PM Modi is scheduled to hold several bilateral meetings, including discussions with Prime Minister Mark Carney and leaders from Germany, Ukraine and Italy. These meetings provide opportunities to strengthen bilateral cooperation and address specific areas of mutual interest. Talks are also reportedly underway to appoint new ambassadors in each other's capitals, further solidifying the commitment to improved diplomatic relations.
The relationship between India and Canada experienced a downturn following allegations made by then-Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in September 2023 regarding the involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has firmly rejected these claims, describing them as "absurd" and accusing Canada of providing a haven for separatist and extremist elements. The diplomatic fallout led to the expulsion of diplomats and a reduction in diplomatic engagement by both countries.
However, recent developments suggest a willingness on both sides to mend the strained relationship. A phone call between PM Modi and PM Carney on June 6, the first in a long time, led to Modi accepting the invitation to attend the G7 Summit. This invitation, extended by PM Carney, is viewed by many as a turning point, signaling a desire to move past the recent challenges and focus on areas of mutual cooperation.
The potential for strengthened India-Canada relations is significant, particularly in areas such as trade, technology, and energy. An Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA) between the two countries could serve as a strategic framework for enhancing bilateral economic cooperation, building momentum towards a more comprehensive economic partnership. Despite the diplomatic challenges, trade volumes between India and Canada have shown resilience, with key sectors for growth including pharmaceuticals, technology, agriculture, energy and services.
As India and Canada navigate this period of recalibration, there is a shared recognition of the importance of addressing security concerns while fostering broader ties. With Canada's Indo-Pacific strategy identifying India as a critical partner, and India's growing role on the global stage, both nations have much to gain from a strengthened and mutually beneficial relationship.
