In a major step towards mending fractured diplomatic ties, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney has extended an invitation to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the G7 Summit, set to be held in Kananaskis, Canada, from June 15 to 17. The invitation reflects a notable shift in bilateral relations after years of strain under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s leadership.
Responding to the invitation, PM Modi posted on X (formerly Twitter):
The outreach from Carney comes amid a backdrop of serious diplomatic tensions that peaked in 2023, when then-PM Justin Trudeau accused Indian agents of involvement in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar—a charge New Delhi categorically rejected. Relations deteriorated further in 2024 when India’s High Commissioner was named a “person of interest,” triggering tit-for-tat diplomatic expulsions and a diplomatic freeze.
In recent months, speculation had grown over whether Canada would invite PM Modi to the G7, and whether India would accept, given the diplomatic chill. Government sources earlier indicated that such engagement would depend on visible efforts from Ottawa to reset ties.
Carney’s invitation, and Modi’s gracious acceptance—signals a turning point. Both leaders have emphasized the importance of democratic values, mutual respect, and people-to-people connections as foundations for a renewed partnership. If followed by sustained diplomatic engagement, this could mark the beginning of a gradual normalization of India-Canada relations.