New Delhi: After days of speculation over his absence from the guest list, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has confirmed he will attend the upcoming G7 summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, following a personal invitation from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. The summit is scheduled to begin in eight days.
Modi announced his participation on social media platform X, ending nearly a week of political sparring over the delay in invitation, which the opposition had seized upon to suggest a diplomatic snub. Though India is not a G7 member, Modi has been a regular invitee to the group’s summits since 2019.
Congratulating Carney on his recent electoral victory, Modi expressed optimism about working closely with the new Canadian leadership. “As vibrant democracies bound by deep people-to-people ties, India and Canada will work together with renewed vigour, guided by mutual respect and shared interests,” he posted.
A Canadian government statement noted the leaders agreed on continuing dialogue between law enforcement agencies, particularly on security issues — a nod to the fragile state of bilateral ties following the controversy surrounding the killing of pro-Khalistan separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Former PM Justin Trudeau had publicly accused India of involvement in Nijjar’s murder, a charge New Delhi has vehemently denied, citing lack of evidence.
Since taking office earlier this year, Carney has sought to reset relations with India. However, concerns remain in New Delhi about Canada’s handling of Sikh separatist groups operating on its soil. Indian officials are watching closely to ensure that Modi’s visit is not disrupted by extremist elements, who have reportedly lobbied against his inclusion in the summit.
Modi's trip to Canada — his first since 2015 — also signals a tentative thaw between the two nations. Both sides are reportedly exploring the possibility of reappointing high commissioners, although officials stress that restoring trust will be a gradual process. Last week, Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand emphasized that Canada remains committed to the rule of law while also seeking to strengthen ties with India.
The official Canadian readout highlighted discussions on longstanding bilateral relations, including strong community linkages and significant trade engagement.
The G7 summit will also mark Modi’s first international appearance since India’s military tensions with Pakistan, and his first meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump since their February summit in Washington. Modi is expected to use the platform to spotlight India’s security concerns, particularly with regard to Pakistan’s alleged role in sponsoring cross-border terrorism.
