Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has extended an invitation to PM Modi for the G7 summit over a phone call. This decision has sparked criticism from some quarters of the Canadian government. The reason lies in questions raised by Canadian opposition parties concerning India's purported involvement in the assassination of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in 2023.
During the call on Friday, Prime Minister Modi accepted the invitation to attend the G7 summit, scheduled to take place in Alberta, Canada, from June 15 to 17. Canada is the chair country of the G7 group this year.
When Canadian journalists questioned the invitation amidst the allegations against the Indian government, Canadian PM Carney explained that India is the world's fifth-largest economy and plays a fundamental role in numerous critical global supply chains. This makes India an essential participant in the upcoming G7 summit, as discussions on such international platforms should include pivotal global economies like India.
When reporters inquired about Nijjar's assassination, Carney refrained from commenting, noting that the matter is currently undergoing legal procedures, and it would be inappropriate to make any statements.
Emphasizing India's Central Role
Prime Minister Carney emphasized that involving India in G7 forums, given its strategic position in global supply chains, is a prudent decision. He also revealed that prior to inviting Modi, he discussed the matter with other G7 member countries, reaching a consensus before proceeding.
Signs of Improved India-Canada Bilateral Relations
Mark Carney stated that India and Canada have agreed to continue dialogues between their law enforcement agencies. He mentioned that this signifies progress in bilateral relations, saying, "We have now agreed bilaterally to maintain the law enforcement dialogue. Some progress has occurred, and accountability issues have been acknowledged."
Political Opposition and Criticism
Canada's New Democratic Party (NDP) has sharply reacted to Carney's invitation to Modi, expressing that "the decision is deeply concerning."
Opposition critics believe that inviting Prime Minister Modi is inappropriate while investigations into India's alleged involvement in Nijjar's killing continue.
Background of India-Canada Relations
In 2023, after Canada's then Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of involvement in Hardeep Singh Nijjar's murder, relations between the two nations soured. India recalled its High Commissioner and five other diplomats from Canada and expelled some Canadian diplomats. At that time, India criticized the Trudeau government for allowing Khalistani elements to operate freely on Canadian soil.
However, following the victory of the Liberal Party leader Mark Carney in April's parliamentary elections, there is renewed hope for rebuilding ties between the two nations. In recent months, dialogues between Indian and Canadian security officials have resumed, and both countries are contemplating the appointment of new High Commissioners. After Trudeau's departure from power, India expressed optimism that bilateral relations could be strengthened based on mutual trust and sensitivity.
