G7 Summit: Prime Minister Narendra Modi landed at Calgary International Airport on Tuesday to participate in the G7 Summit, hosted this year in Kananaskis, Alberta. This marks Modi’s first visit to Canada since 2015, following an invitation from newly elected Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. The two-day summit, which began Monday, brings together the leaders of the world’s major economies including the US, UK, France, Germany, Japan, Italy, Canada, and the EU, alongside key global bodies such as the UN, IMF, and World Bank.
In a post on X, PM Narendra Modi said, “Landed in Calgary, Canada, to take part in the G7 Summit. Will be meeting various leaders at the Summit and sharing my thoughts on important global issues. Will also be emphasising the priorities of the Global South.”
The Ministry of External Affairs earlier said, “At the Summit, the Prime Minister will exchange views with leaders of G7 countries, other invited outreach countries and Heads of International Organisations on crucial global issues, including energy security, technology and innovation, particularly the AI-energy nexus and Quantum-related issues.”
What’s on agenda?
PM Modi is attending the G7 Outreach Sessions as a special invitee. India has been consistently invited since 2019, highlighting its growing global relevance. During his 23-hour stay, he will hold bilateral meetings with world leaders and speak at key sessions on energy security, digital innovation, and global partnerships. The visit follows India’s Operation Sindoor, a military strike in Pakistan after the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people.
Renewing India-Canada ties
The visit is significant as it comes after a turbulent phase in India-Canada relations. Tensions escalated following the 2023 killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia. Diplomatic expulsions followed on both sides, with India accusing former PM Justin Trudeau’s administration of allowing extremist elements to flourish. Carney’s invitation signals a thaw, with both nations expressing interest in a reset. India’s Ministry of External Affairs described the summit as a chance to explore pathways to rebuild trust and cooperation.
What’s on PM Modi’s schedule?
PM Modi’s Canadian itinerary includes meetings with PM Carney and other world leaders, participation in the Outreach Summit, and discussions with international bodies. He is expected to depart for Zagreb, Croatia on Wednesday morning. His remarks will address topics such as AI-driven energy transformation, safeguarding communities, and building sustainable future partnerships.
Bilateral trade
Trade between India and Canada remains robust despite diplomatic friction. In 2024, bilateral goods trade stood at USD 8.6 billion, with India exporting USD 4.2 billion and importing USD 4.4 billion. Services trade reached USD 14.3 billion, with India exporting USD 2.5 billion and importing USD 11.8 billion. Modi’s visit may open doors to further economic collaboration, particularly in tech and clean energy.
G7 2025
This year’s G7 summit is overshadowed by escalating crises, including the Israel-Iran conflict and the continuing Russia-Ukraine war. US President Donald Trump left early amid Middle East tensions. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is also attending.