The diplomatic strain began when then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of being involved in the murder of Sikh separatist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada. India denied the allegations, while Canada expelled six Indian diplomats and charged four men in connection with Nijjar's death. Despite the prior discord, the meeting between Modi and Carney was described as productive, with both leaders agreeing to appoint new envoys and reaffirming their mutual commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and sovereignty.
Modi's participation in the G7 summit was significant, as it marked a potential reset in India-Canada relations, which hold significant economic implications, particularly in trade and labor exchange, including Canada's agricultural exports to India. The summit provided an opportunity for key bilateral interactions, with leaders from the G7 and additional invitees like India’s Prime Minister Modi and representatives from various global powers.
However, Modi's visit drew protests from Canada’s Sikh community, which criticized the engagement and staged symbolic demonstrations in Calgary. The World Sikh Organization of Canada condemned the invitation, calling it a betrayal of Canadian values and Sikh concerns. The organization had written formally to Carney on May 21, urging him not to extend the invitation to the Indian leader.
In response to the invitation, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney emphasized India's central role in global supply chains and its status as the fifth-largest economy in the world. He stated that it "made sense" to have India at the table for discussions on energy security, digital future, critical minerals, and building infrastructure in the emerging and developing world.
