Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney met during the G7 Summit, marking their first face-to-face discussion since Canada’s recent elections. The leaders focused on the need to mend the relationship between India and Canada, agreeing to take concrete actions to restore stability. The early return of High Commissioners to each other’s capitals was a key decision.
The meeting allowed for an open and forward-looking exchange about the status of India-Canada relations and the future path forward. Both leaders emphasized the importance of the relationship, which is rooted in shared democratic principles, respect for the law, and a commitment to territorial integrity. They highlighted the need for a balanced partnership, based on mutual respect, people-to-people ties, and economic cooperation.
In a significant development, the leaders decided on “calibrated and constructive steps” to bring stability to the relationship, starting with the return of High Commissioners. They also stressed the importance of resuming engagements at the ministerial and working levels to build trust and momentum.
The discussion also covered collaboration opportunities in various sectors, including clean energy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, and food security. A shared interest in promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific was expressed. They also addressed restarting the stalled negotiations on the Early Progress Trade Agreement (EPTA).
The leaders acknowledged the progress at the G7 Summit, and their desire to work together on global priorities like climate action and inclusive growth. They noted the strong people-to-people connections and agreed to leverage them for mutual benefit. These positive steps follow a period of tension between the two countries after allegations regarding the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Canada.