Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to arrive in Italy on Thursday to participate in the 50th G7 Summit, marking his fifth consecutive attendance at the gathering of the world’s leading economies. Modi will represent India as an invited guest, joining other global leaders at Borgo Egnazia, a luxury resort in Italy’s Apulia region, from June 13 to 15.
A key highlight of Modi’s visit will be a potential meeting with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Friday amidst strained bilateral relations. The Indian government has reiterated its concerns to Canada regarding the political platform provided to individuals supporting violence and extremism against India. Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra emphasized India’s expectation for Canada to take decisive actions against such anti-India elements, following repeated expressions of concern from New Delhi.
The relationship between India and Canada soured notably after Trudeau’s comments last September, insinuating potential Indian involvement in the killing of Khalistani extremist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in British Columbia, which India dismissed as baseless. Pro-Khalistani groups have also threatened Indian diplomats in Canada, further complicating bilateral ties.
In addition to addressing bilateral concerns, Modi is slated to engage with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni in a bilateral meeting during his visit, marking his first foreign trip since beginning his third consecutive term as prime minister. The G7 Summit’s agenda is expected to encompass pressing global issues such as the conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza, reflecting Modi’s role in representing not only India’s interests but also those of the Global South.
Modi’s participation in the Outreach session at the G7 Summit will provide an opportunity to build on the outcomes of the G20 Summit held under India’s presidency last year and discuss critical issues impacting developing nations.
This visit underscores India’s proactive diplomatic engagement on the global stage amidst evolving geopolitical dynamics and regional challenges.
