Narendra Modi will not attend the G7 summit scheduled to take place from June 15-17 in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada this year, for the first time in six years. His absence underscores growing diplomatic tensions between India and Canada regarding Khalistan separatist activities as well as unresolved investigations regarding Hardeep Singh Nijjar’s 2023 killing.
Wikipedia +5 Minalitat +5 Minbarkeit Mintage Min/Nimalitat Min and The Economic Times both give positive ratings of 5 with respect to coverage by those sources that they give more coverage, including The Times of India’s 5 star review for 2024-25, although The Economic Times (+8 The Economic Times =8.5*).
Sources have noted that Canada has yet to extend a formal invitation for India to attend, even though leaders from countries such as Australia, Ukraine, South Africa and Brazil were invited. Even if an invitation were extended however, Indian officials indicate Modi might decline due to strain in bilateral relations and security issues.
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Immediately following Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s claims of Indian involvement in Nijjar’s assassination – allegations which India denies – the diplomatic tension between them deepened further and lead to mutual expulsion of diplomats, leading to significant downturn in relations. India Today and Wikipedia both list this incident.
Mark Carney, as Prime Minister, has indicated his wish to improve relations between Canada and India, but Indian officials remain hesitant, emphasizing the need for concrete action against extremist groups operating in Canada. These statements were released as part of Business Today.
Modi’s anticipated absence from this year’s G7 summit represents a departure from his past attendance, underscoring India’s increased global engagement. His decision not to attend highlights the complex nature of international diplomacy and balancing national interests with global cooperation.
As India and Canada head towards their summit meeting, observers from around the globe will closely watch how their diplomatic relations play out and whether any opportunities for reconciliation and collaboration can be identified in time.