The G7 summit in Canada will serve as a prominent platform for India to assert its growing global influence, despite the lingering diplomatic tensions with Canada over the Hardeep Singh Nijjar murder investigation. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presence, at the invitation of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, underscores India’s strategic importance.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who extended the invitation, remained non-committal when asked if he believed Modi had a role in Nijjar’s assassination. He cited the ongoing and “quite advanced” legal process in Canada as the reason for his silence, emphasizing the impropriety of public commentary. Four Indian nationals have been charged in connection with Nijjar’s murder, which has severely impacted bilateral ties and led to mutual diplomatic expulsions.
The G7 summit, slated for June 15-17 in Kananaskis, Alberta, is a significant international gathering. Carney defended his decision by highlighting India’s economic and demographic importance, calling it the “fifth largest economy in the world” and “most populous country,” and central to global supply chains. He argued that Modi’s presence is essential for discussions on energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals.
Modi, in a statement, expressed his pleasure at receiving the call from Carney and congratulated the Canadian leader on his recent electoral victory. He affirmed India and Canada’s commitment to work “with renewed vigour, guided by mutual respect and shared interests,” indicating a desire to use the G7 platform to further India’s global agenda despite the strained relationship.