Prime Minister Narendra Modi met with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney on the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, marking a significant step towards mending strained relations between India and Canada. The meeting, held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, was the first between the two leaders since Carney assumed office in May 2025 and offered a promising outlook for revitalizing the India-Canada partnership after a period of diplomatic challenges.
PM Modi emphasized the importance of the India-Canada relationship, stating that it is "extremely important" and that both nations should collaborate to achieve mutually beneficial cooperation across various sectors. He acknowledged the significant investments made by Canadian companies in India and vice versa, highlighting the strong economic ties between the two countries. Modi also underscored the shared democratic values of India and Canada, suggesting that by working together, they can strengthen democracy and humanity.
Prime Minister Carney echoed Modi's sentiments, reaffirming the importance of the Canada-India relationship, which is based on mutual respect, the rule of law, and a commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity. Acknowledging India's growing global influence and its role as the chair of the G20 summit, Carney expressed his appreciation for India's participation in the G7 Summit, recognizing it as a testament to India's importance and Prime Minister Modi's leadership.
One of the key outcomes of the meeting was the agreement to appoint new high commissioners to each other's capitals. This decision signals a commitment from both sides to restore regular diplomatic services for citizens and businesses, addressing a critical aspect of the strained relationship. The move is expected to facilitate smoother communication and cooperation between the two countries, fostering a more conducive environment for bilateral engagements.
The discussions between the two leaders covered a wide range of topics, including trade, energy, space, clean energy, critical minerals, and fertilizers, identifying these areas as having immense potential for bilateral cooperation. Both leaders expressed optimism about the future of the India-Canada partnership and reiterated their commitment to working together to address global challenges and promote shared values.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri described the meeting as "positive and constructive," emphasizing the shared values, democracy, the rule of law, and people-to-people contacts that underpin the India-Canada relationship. The meeting on the sidelines of the G7 Summit provided a valuable opportunity for Prime Minister Modi and Prime Minister Carney to engage in a direct and open dialogue, paving the way for a renewed and strengthened partnership between India and Canada.
