India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a fruitful phone conversation with Canada’s newly elected Prime Minister Mark J. Carney, congratulating him on his electoral victory. Modi also expressed gratitude to Carney for inviting him to the G-7 summit in Kananaskis, Canada, scheduled for the end of this month.
Prime Minister Modi conveyed his happiness about their conversation on X, stating, 'It was a joy to speak with Canada’s Prime Minister Mark J. Carney. I congratulated him on his recent electoral triumph and expressed my thanks for the invitation to the G-7 summit in Kananaskis.'
Further, PM Modi emphasized the vibrant democratic ties and deep-rooted connections between India and Canada. He expressed optimism in collaborating with new vigor, based on mutual respect and shared interests. Modi eagerly anticipates meeting Prime Minister Carney at the G-7 summit and expressed his excitement about the upcoming discussions.
This interaction marks a significant step towards bolstering Indo-Canadian bilateral relations. With a longstanding history of cultural and economic ties, this high-level dialogue is expected to further solidify cooperation between the two nations. The G-7 summit will provide a crucial platform for both leaders to engage in global and regional discussions.
The G-7 is a group of seven of the world’s advanced economies, namely Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It also includes the European Union (EU), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the World Bank, and the United Nations.
Strains in India-Canada relations
India-Canada relations faced challenges in September 2023 when then-Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused alleged Indian agents of involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Nijjar. India dismissed these claims as unfounded and driven by ulterior motives.
Canada demanded an investigation, and although nothing substantial emerged to corroborate the allegations, relations between the two countries chilled. With a change in government, the new Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has shown commitment to mending ties with India. However, significant improvements in India-Canada relations remain elusive.
