Introduction

India’s growing stature on the global stage has taken center stage once again, as reports emerge that the G6 nations collectively urged Canada to invite Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the 2025 G7 Summit. According to Canadian official Vina Nadjibulla, Canada was the lone outlier among the G7 nations, all of whom emphasized the need for stronger ties with India. This development underscores India’s rising geopolitical and economic influence, with the world recognizing its pivotal role in shaping the future of global partnerships. As Nadjibulla stated, “India is important. Canada needs to stay relevant in the world.” Here’s an in-depth look at why the G7’s push for Modi’s inclusion signals a new era for India’s global leadership.

The G7’s Push for India’s Inclusion

The G7 Summit, comprising the world’s leading economies—Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States—has long been a platform for addressing global challenges. In a recent discussion covered by Canadian media, Vina Nadjibulla, a Canadian official, revealed that the G6 nations (excluding Canada) strongly advocated for inviting PM Modi to the 2025 summit. This collective pressure highlights the growing recognition of India as a critical player in global economics, security, and diplomacy.

India’s inclusion in high-level discussions is no surprise. With a rapidly growing economy projected to become the world’s third-largest by 2030, India is a cornerstone of the Indo-Pacific strategy for many G7 nations. The push to involve Modi reflects the desire to deepen strategic partnerships with India, particularly in areas like trade, technology, and regional security. Canada, however, initially hesitated, possibly due to strained bilateral relations stemming from past diplomatic tensions. Despite this, the G6’s insistence underscores the global consensus that India’s participation is non-negotiable.

Why India Matters to the G7

India’s importance to the G7 is multifaceted. Economically, India’s GDP growth rate of 6.5% in the last financial year positions it as one of the fastest-growing major economies. Its exports, ranging from pharmaceuticals to technology, are vital to global supply chains. For instance, India’s trade with G7 nations, including $5.56 billion in exports to Canada alone in 2023, showcases its economic clout.

Strategically, India’s role in the Indo-Pacific region is critical. As Western nations seek to counterbalance China’s influence, India emerges as a reliable partner. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), comprising the US, India, Japan, and Australia, exemplifies this shift. The G7 sees India as a democratic counterweight to authoritarian powers, making Modi’s presence at the summit a strategic necessity.

Moreover, India’s advancements in technology, renewable energy, and innovation align with the G7’s priorities, such as digital transformation and green energy initiatives. From hosting the G20 Summit in 2023 to championing sustainable development, India’s leadership under Modi has earned global respect, compelling G7 nations to prioritize stronger ties.

Canada’s Reluctance and the Need to Stay Relevant

Canada’s initial reluctance to invite PM Modi stems from a complex history of diplomatic tensions, particularly over issues like the Khalistan movement and allegations of Indian involvement in incidents on Canadian soil. These tensions have strained bilateral ties, with events like the 2023 diplomatic spat over the assassination of Hardeep Singh Nijjar marking a low point. However, as Nadjibulla emphasized, Canada risks losing relevance if it fails to align with the global consensus on India’s importance.

Canada’s economy benefits significantly from its ties with India. In 2023, bilateral trade reached $9.36 billion, with India as Canada’s 10th-largest trading partner. Indian students, constituting 40% of Canada’s international student population, contribute billions to the economy. Additionally, the 1.3 million-strong Indian diaspora in Canada strengthens cultural and economic ties. For Canada to maintain its global standing, fostering a professional relationship with India is essential, as highlighted by both Canadian and Indian leaders like Mark Carney and Pierre Poilievre, who advocate for recalibrating ties.

The Modi Magic: India’s Global Appeal

Under PM Modi’s leadership, India has transformed into a global powerhouse. His policies, from “Make in India” to digital innovation, have attracted international investment and partnerships. Modi’s ability to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes, maintaining ties with both Western nations and Russia while advocating for a multipolar world, has elevated India’s global profile. The G6’s insistence on his G7 invitation is a testament to this “Modi Magic,” which continues to reshape global perceptions of India.

Posts on X reflect this sentiment, with users noting that Canada had to “swallow its ego” to invite Modi, as the world recognizes India’s indispensable role. This development is a moment of pride for the Indian diaspora, particularly in Canada, where nearly 4% of the population is of Indian origin. It also signals a shift in global power dynamics, with India emerging as a leader that even traditional powers cannot ignore.

Opportunities for Canada-India Collaboration

Despite past tensions, there is immense potential for Canada and India to collaborate. Trade agreements like the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) could boost bilateral trade by $6.5 billion by 2035. Canada’s vast natural resources, including critical minerals, align with India’s manufacturing and energy transition needs. Joint initiatives in green technology, healthcare, and education can further strengthen ties.

Moreover, Canada’s Indo-Pacific strategy, launched in 2022, identifies India as a key partner. By leveraging shared values like democracy and pluralism, both nations can work together on global challenges like climate change and regional security. The G7’s push for Modi’s inclusion could serve as a catalyst for resetting Canada-India relations, fostering mutual trust and cooperation.

Conclusion

The G6’s pressure on Canada to invite PM Modi to the G7 Summit underscores India’s undeniable global influence. As Vina Nadjibulla aptly stated, “India is important. Canada needs to stay relevant in the world.” This moment marks a turning point for Canada-India relations, offering an opportunity to move beyond past tensions and build a strategic partnership. For the Indian diaspora and global observers, it’s a clear signal that India, under Modi’s leadership, is a force to be reckoned with. As the world looks to India for solutions to global challenges, the “Modi Magic” continues to captivate and inspire.