Prime Minister Narendra Modi likely to skip G7 Summit; first time in six years

NEW DELHI: A recent report suggests that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is likely to skip the upcoming G7 Summit in Canada due to strained relations between India and Canada. This would be the first time in six years that the Prime Minister has been absent from the summit. The summit, which includes the European Union, the IMF, the World Bank, and the United Nations along with the world's largest industrial economies, will be held without India's participation.

India recently became the world’s fourth-largest economy, and experts suggest that India, as a key trade partner, could play a significant role in reviving Canada’s relatively stagnant economy. Although both countries have taken steps to improve bilateral ties, analysts point out that a complete normalization of relations will take time.

According to national media reports, India is unlikely to accept Canada’s invitation to the G7 summit scheduled for mid-May. Security concerns persist as Canada has emerged as a hub for Khalistani separatists. Tensions escalated after former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of being involved in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India strongly denied the allegations, and Trudeau was unable to provide any credible evidence to support his claim.

In response, India suspended visa services for Canadian citizens. Trudeau eventually stepped down ahead of the elections, and with Canada facing an economic crisis, Mark Carney took over the leadership of the Liberal Party and led it to victory. Analysts believe that, given Canada's ongoing tensions with U.S. President Donald Trump and strained relations with China, India remains Carney’s best hope for economic recovery and global realignment.

Recently, Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand held discussions with Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar. She stated that both countries are eager to rebuild their bilateral relationship and expressed hope that things can be improved in that direction.