The Indian diaspora in Canada is abuzz with anticipation and hope as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares for a landmark visit to the country. His upcoming presence at the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, following an official invitation from Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, is being hailed as a potential turning point in restoring and strengthening India-Canada relations after a period of diplomatic strain.
Devesh Oberoi, President of the Indian Society of Calgary, called the invitation a “welcome and encouraging move,” suggesting it could mark the beginning of renewed cooperation between the two nations.
“India and Canada have enjoyed a strong bond for over five decades. While recent tensions did test that relationship, this gesture from Canada reflects a willingness to rebuild trust and reaffirm shared values,” Oberoi said. “Prime Minister Modi’s consistent presence at the G7 signals India’s growing importance on the global stage, and this invitation underlines the depth of our bilateral ties.”
Oberoi also highlighted the influence and aspirations of the 1.3 million-strong Indian diaspora in Canada, most of whom wish to see stronger, more constructive engagement between the two democracies.
“Political disagreements are part of international relations. But the foundation of India-Canada ties—our people, values, and history—remains intact. We view any friction as temporary and resolvable through dialogue and mutual respect,” he added. Raj Verma, President of the Hindu Society of Calgary, echoed similar sentiments, calling the visit “a very good development.”
“India, as the fourth-largest global economy, plays a pivotal role internationally. Closer ties will benefit both nations—economically, socially, and politically. Prime Minister Modi has shown visionary leadership in advancing India’s global standing, and we’re proud of the progress under his guidance,” Verma stated.
Acharya Dhansh Shukla, another senior member of the Hindu Society of Calgary, praised Canadian PM Mark Carney’s decision to extend the invitation, calling it a reflection of mutual goodwill and diplomatic maturity.
“PM Carney, a respected economist and thoughtful leader, clearly understands India’s global significance. His invitation is not just political—it’s a symbol of confidence and respect. And PM Modi’s philosophy of ‘Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah’—the well-being of all—aligns beautifully with global cooperation,” Shukla said. Shukla also urged both leaders to ensure transparent communication and open channels of dialogue to remove any lingering doubts and misconceptions.
“We are delighted to welcome PM Modi to Canada. Both countries share democratic values and cultural connections that should not be overshadowed by temporary tensions. The people of both nations desire harmony, progress, and mutual prosperity,” he said. Reflecting on the past year’s diplomatic freeze, Shukla emphasized that any misunderstandings were not reflective of the sentiments of ordinary citizens.
“Neither Canadians nor Indians harbor animosity toward each other. It is unfortunate when political or extremist elements try to exploit differences. We urge both governments to remain focused on mutual goodwill and long-term collaboration,” he added.
At a recent media briefing, Randhir Jaiswal, spokesperson for India’s Ministry of External Affairs, confirmed the invitation and shared insights into the upcoming engagement.
“Prime Minister Carney extended the invitation during a recent phone call, and Prime Minister Modi has accepted it. This summit will be a significant opportunity for both leaders to discuss global and bilateral issues and explore pathways to rebuild the relationship on the basis of mutual respect, shared interests, and sensitivity to each other’s concerns,” Jaiswal said.
India-Canada ties were severely tested in 2023, following accusations by former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau regarding Indian involvement in internal matters—a claim strongly denied by New Delhi. In response, India accused Canada of harboring extremist groups and failing to ensure the safety of Indian diplomats.
However, with new leadership in Ottawa and renewed diplomatic engagement, the tone appears to be shifting toward reconciliation. The upcoming G7 Summit, featuring PM Modi and PM Carney, may serve as a pivotal moment in rewriting the narrative—turning a page on the past and opening a new chapter of cooperation and respect.
