New Canadian Government Extends Olive Branch to India at G7

The new Canadian government, under Prime Minister Mark Carney, appears to be extending an olive branch to India by inviting Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the G7 summit, despite lingering diplomatic tensions over the Hardeep Singh Nijjar murder. This move signals a desire to mend strained relations and foster engagement.
Carney, while facing reporters’ questions, declined to comment on whether he believed Modi had a role in Nijjar’s assassination. He cited the ongoing and “quite advanced” legal process in Canada, stating it was inappropriate to do so. Four Indian nationals have been charged in connection with Nijjar’s murder, which has severely impacted bilateral ties and led to mutual diplomatic expulsions.
The G7 summit, slated for June 15-17 in Kananaskis, Alberta, is a significant international gathering. Carney defended his decision by highlighting India’s economic and demographic importance, calling it the “fifth largest economy in the world” and “most populous country,” and central to global supply chains. He argued that Modi’s presence is essential for discussions on energy, artificial intelligence, and critical minerals.
This controversial invitation also aligns with Carney’s new government’s broader efforts to ease tensions with other nations, including recent efforts to normalize communication with China and resolve trade disputes with the US. While seen by some as a pragmatic step, the World Sikh Organization views it as a “betrayal” of Canadian values.