Mark Carney Hails India’s Global Role, Stresses Need for G7 Participation

International News: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney extended an invitation to Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi for the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, from June 15-17, emphasizing India’s indispensable role in global affairs. Modi accepted the invitation, as shared in his X post at 6:00 PM IST, congratulating Carney on his recent election victory and expressing optimism about strengthening India-Canada ties. Carney’s invitation underscores India’s growing influence as a global power and the G7’s need to engage with emerging economies.

India’s Pivotal Global Influence

Carney’s invitation reflects India’s rising stature, with its $3.94 trillion GDP and 1.45 billion population making it a linchpin in global supply chains and geopolitics. He emphasized India’s role in addressing pressing issues like critical minerals and infrastructure development in the Global South, as noted in his press conference. Modi’s attendance, confirmed after initial speculation of a boycott due to diplomatic tensions, marks his sixth consecutive G7 Summit since 2019. India’s contributions, from vaccine diplomacy during COVID-19 to its 2023 G20 presidency, have cemented its voice in global governance. Carney’s focus on “continued law enforcement dialogue” hints at efforts to navigate the Nijjar issue, where Canada alleged Indian involvement without evidence, a claim India denies. The invitation, despite protests from groups like the World Sikh Organisation, prioritizes strategic partnerships over past frictions.

Resetting India-Canada Relations

The invitation comes amid efforts to mend India-Canada ties, strained since former PM Justin Trudeau’s 2023 allegations over Nijjar’s killing, which led to mutual diplomat expulsions. Carney, a former Bank of England governor, aims to diversify Canada’s trade away from the US, viewing India as a key partner, per Business Today. Modi’s X post highlighted shared democratic values and people-to-people ties, signaling mutual interest in cooperation. However,  Carney’s refusal to comment on the Nijjar case, citing ongoing legal proceedings, suggests a pragmatic approach. As India prepares to join discussions on Ukraine, climate action, and AI ethics at the G7, the summit offers a platform to bolster bilateral ties and reinforce India’s global leadership.