Leaders of India and Canada met on Tuesday for their first formal discussions since a diplomatic fallout in 2023, when the Canadian government alleged Indian involvement in the assassination of a Sikh separatist on Canadian soil.
Despite nearly two years of strained relations, Prime Minister Mark Carney offered a warm welcome to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Group of Seven summit, hosted in Alberta. Their encounter showed no visible signs of the past tension, as both sides appeared focused on resetting ties.
India has firmly rejected the murder allegations, and both countries now seem eager to rebuild their partnership amid shifting global trade dynamics and rising geopolitical conflicts. Carney emphasized India’s strategic importance in global supply chains, which was a key reason for extending the invitation to the summit—despite India not being a G7 member.
“It is my great honor to have you here,” Carney said, noting that their dialogue reflects the significance of India’s global role and the need for collaboration on issues like energy security, artificial intelligence, and combating terrorism and transnational repression.
Neither leader addressed the 2023 controversy during their public remarks. Modi, speaking through an interpreter, expressed optimism about strengthening democratic values and advancing cooperation. “I’m sure, under your leadership, we will be able to work together in a positive way,” he said. The visit marks Modi’s first trip to Canada in ten years.
India plays a significant role in Canada’s labor and education sectors, serving as a leading source of international students and temporary workers. It is also a key market for Canadian agricultural exports. Greg Cherewyk, head of the Pulse Canada industry group, said Canadian farmers are particularly interested in expanding sales of lentils and other products to India.
However, Modi’s visit has sparked protests among members of Canada’s Sikh community, the largest outside India’s Punjab region. Demonstrators in Calgary expressed outrage, criticizing the Canadian government for not setting preconditions on Modi’s attendance. A group of protesters was seen tearing Indian flags in protest.
While India denies any role in the 2023 killing, it has in turn accused Canada of offering a haven to Sikh separatists. Canada previously expelled six Indian diplomats and linked them to the case. Four individuals have been charged in connection with the murder.
