PM Modi's Potential Absence from the 2024 G7 Summit in Canada (June 15-17)
PM Modi: The G7 Summit is scheduled to take place in Alberta, Canada, from June 15-17. Canada is hosting this year's event. However, significantly, for the first time in six years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to attend. India has not yet received an official invitation to the summit. Previously, PM Modi has been a regular guest at the G7 Summit.
Reasons for PM Modi's Potential Absence
Sources indicate India has yet to decide on its participation. Relations between India and Canada have been strained since last year, particularly due to disagreements over the Khalistani separatist issue. India has concerns that the Canadian government isn't taking seriously India's anxieties regarding Khalistani separatists. This is the primary reason for PM Modi's anticipated absence.
Canada's Silence, India's Concern
According to a report in the Times of India, Canada has not clarified whether India has been invited to the G7 Summit. There has been no official statement from Canadian authorities. Meanwhile, Canadian media reports indicate that invitations have been sent to South Africa, Ukraine, Australia, and Brazil. India is notably absent from this list.
Deteriorating Relations Since 2023
India-Canada relations have significantly deteriorated since 2023. Former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused India of involvement in the assassination of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has vehemently denied these accusations. Canada has yet to provide concrete evidence to support its claims. This dispute has severely strained diplomatic ties between the two nations.
G7 Member Countries
The G7 comprises Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Annually, this group discusses global issues such as the economy, security, and climate change. The European Union and other countries are also invited as guests. While India has participated in the G7 in previous years, its participation this year appears uncertain.
