PM Modi Touches Down In Canada: What To Expect From G7 Talks And Trade Discussions

Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a significant three-n tour, visiting Cyprus Canada, and Croatia starting June 15 This marks his first trip following India's precision on terror camps in Pakistan after the April 22 Pahalgam attack that claimed 26 lives. The visit aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and address pressing global issues.

Modi is set to arrive in Canada by the evening of June 16, continuing his journey Cyprus. Invited by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, Modi will attend the G-7 Summit in Kananaskis from June 16-17. This will be Modi's sixth consecutive participation in the summit, where he will discuss global challenges with leaders from G-7 countries and other invited nations.

India-Canada Relations

The relationship between India and Canada has been strained since 2023 due to allegations involving Indian agents in the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a Canadian citizen and Khalistani terrorist. The situation worsened when Canada expelled six Indian diplomats in October 2024. India denied involvement and condemned these accusations as unfounded.

Mark Carney's recent victory as Canada's Prime Minister is seen as an opportunity for a diplomatic reset with India. Carney prioritised rebuilding ties with India during his campaign, signalling a potential shift from former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's approach. Modi was among the first to congratulate Carney on his win.

G-7 Summit Agenda

The G-7 consists of seven advanced economies: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the US, the UK, and the European Union. At the summit, Modi will engage in discussions on energy security, technology innovation, particularly focusing on AI-energy nexus and quantum-related issues. He expressed eagerness to exchange views on these crucial topics.

On the sidelines of the summit, Modi plans to hold bilateral meetings with several leaders including Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Discussions are expected to cover new intelligence-sharing arrangements and efforts to reduce misunderstandings between the two nations.

Bilateral Trade Prospects

Bilateral trade between India and Canada reached $8.6 billion in 2024 but is considered below potential. The two countries share democratic values and strong people-to-people ties. Reports suggest that India's Department of Atomic Energy might renew its agreement with Canada's Cameco for uranium supply.

Cameco Corporation is a leading uranium company based in Saskatoon, Canada. During Modi's visit to Canada in 2015, both nations signed a $350 million deal for uranium concentrate purchase. Renewing this agreement could further enhance economic cooperation between India and Canada.

Shared Democratic Values

India and Canada are vibrant democracies committed to rule of law and mutual respect. MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal highlighted that both countries are exploring ways to reset their relationship based on shared interests and sensitivity towards each other's concerns.

The upcoming meeting at the G-7 Summit offers an important platform for India and Canada to exchange views on bilateral and global issues. Jaiswal emphasised that both nations are bound by shared democratic values and vibrant people-to-people connections.

Carney's emphasis on diversifying trade aligns with India's strategic importance in Canada's global economic engagement plans. With nearly 18 lakh residents of Indian origin in Canada, including around 7.7 lakh Sikhs, strengthening ties holds significant potential for both countries.