Toronto– Anticipation is running high within the Indian diaspora in Canada as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to arrive on Monday to attend the G7 Summit. His visit marks a potential turning point in India-Canada relations, which have experienced significant turbulence in recent years.
This will be PM Modi’s first visit to Canada since ties soured between the two nations in 2023. He is attending the G7 Summit in Kananaskis at the invitation of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney — a gesture that has sparked hope among Canadians of Indian origin for a reset in bilateral relations.
“There’s a lot of excitement in the Indian community ever since Prime Minister Modi was invited,” said Tarun Jain, an IT professional based in Toronto. “We still can’t believe he’s actually coming. Indians have contributed a great deal to the Canadian economy — from doctors and engineers to students. Everyone wants to see relations improve, because both countries stand to benefit.”
That optimism is shared across the country. In Vancouver, businessman Gautam Sevda said, “This is a great moment for both nations. India is the world’s youngest country demographically, and Canada is rich in natural resources. If we work together, the potential is enormous.”
Entrepreneur Akshay Saxena praised the leadership on both sides for initiating renewed dialogue.
“Our new prime minister has taken a bold step,” Saxena said. “Ties between the two countries were strained, but this visit signals a fresh start. Under Prime Minister Modi, India has become the world’s fourth-largest economy. Every nation now wants to partner with India, and Canada should be no exception.”
For many, the connection between the two nations is deeply personal. Rahul Kumar, another IT professional in Toronto, described the dual identity shared by much of the Indian diaspora.
“India is our janmabhoomi (land of birth), and Canada is our karmabhoomi (land of work),” he said. “There’s a genuine admiration here for PM Modi. India needs energy, and Canada has it. In many ways we’re alike, and in many ways we complement each other. The partnership should thrive.”
Relations between India and Canada reached a historic low in 2023 after then-Prime Minister Justin Trudeau accused New Delhi of involvement in the killing of a Canadian Sikh separatist — an allegation India strongly denied. In response, India criticized Canada for harboring extremist elements and failing to protect Indian diplomats from threats.
Now, with new leadership in Ottawa and PM Modi’s high-profile visit, both governments appear ready to turn the page and explore new avenues for cooperation. (Source: IANS)
