G7 Summit: Modi, Trudeau Briefly Interact Amidst Tensions over Nijjar Killing Allegations

Keywords: G7 summit, Narendra Modi, Justin Trudeau, Hardeep Singh Nijjar, Sikh separatism, India, Canada, diplomatic tensions, bilateral relations.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had a brief interaction at the G7 summit in Hiroshima, Japan, amidst ongoing tensions surrounding the alleged killing of Khalistani separatist leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar in India. While details of their conversation remain undisclosed, the encounter is significant as it comes at a time of heightened diplomatic friction between the two nations.

The killing of Nijjar, a Canadian citizen, in Punjab, India, in June 2023, has sparked a diplomatic row, with Canada accusing India of involvement in the assassination. India, in turn, has rejected these accusations, calling them “baseless and motivated.” The incident has led to a deterioration in bilateral relations, with Canada recalling its ambassador from India and putting travel advisories for citizens visiting the country.

The interaction between Modi and Trudeau at the G7 summit, although brief, is seen as a sign of their attempt to manage the escalating situation. However, the lack of any concrete steps towards resolving the issue highlights the complexities involved and the deep-seated distrust between the two countries.

It remains to be seen if the G7 summit will provide a platform for a meaningful dialogue and de-escalation of tensions between India and Canada. The future of bilateral relations hinges on the ability of both countries to find common ground and address the underlying concerns related to Sikh separatism and the Nijjar case.