AI Generated Summary
- In a significant diplomatic development, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit on Tuesday, signaling a renewed commitment to strengthening bilateral ties between the two democracies after a turbulent period.
- “This is a great opportunity for us to serve the public good, the global good,” he said, referring to India’s G20 presidency in 2023 as a platform that championed international cooperation and inclusive growth.
- Carney extended the invitation to Modi for the G7 Summit as a gesture of goodwill and a signal of Ottawa’s intent to reset strained relations with New Delhi.
In a significant diplomatic development, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met on the sidelines of the G7 Summit on Tuesday, signaling a renewed commitment to strengthening bilateral ties between the two democracies after a turbulent period.
This marked the first face-to-face meeting between Modi and Carney since the latter took office in May. Carney extended the invitation to Modi for the G7 Summit as a gesture of goodwill and a signal of Ottawa’s intent to reset strained relations with New Delhi.
During their meeting, Prime Minister Modi emphasized the strategic value of India-Canada relations, describing them as “extremely important” and calling for “win-win cooperation” across multiple sectors including trade, energy, clean technology, and critical minerals.
“I am sure under your leadership, we will be able to work together in a positive way and take the India-Canada relationship forward,” Modi told Carney, congratulating him on his recent electoral victory.
The leaders discussed shared values such as democracy, freedom, and the rule of law. Modi pointed out that both countries are not only linked by economic interests but also by a mutual commitment to global welfare. “Together, we can strengthen democratic values, we can strengthen humanity,” he said, noting the contributions of Canadian companies in India and the growing Indian diaspora in Canada.
In his public remarks, Carney welcomed Modi warmly, praising India’s role on the global stage. “Your country’s presence at the G7 since 2018 is a testament to your leadership and the global importance of India,” Carney said. He highlighted areas of mutual concern, including energy transition, artificial intelligence, and global security challenges such as terrorism and transnational repression.
The meeting also marked Modi’s first visit to Canada in a decade. “This is a great opportunity for us to serve the public good, the global good,” he said, referring to India’s G20 presidency in 2023 as a platform that championed international cooperation and inclusive growth.
Notably, the meeting comes in the wake of a diplomatic freeze between the two nations last year, triggered by the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. While neither leader addressed the controversy directly, the cordial tone of the talks and mutual praise suggest both governments are eager to move past previous tensions.
Following the meeting, Modi posted on social media: “Had an excellent meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney. Complimented him and the Canadian Government for successfully hosting the G7 Summit. We look forward to adding new momentum to the India-Canada friendship.”
As both leaders prepare to chart a new course for cooperation, observers say the meeting is a clear step toward repairing and revitalizing a once-promising relationship. The path ahead may not be without its challenges, but Tuesday’s discussions laid a firm diplomatic foundation for future engagement.
