Modi’s G7 Visit Could Reset India-Canada Ties, Says Canadian Political Analyst Josh Udall

As Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to attend the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, from June 15 to 17, Canadian political commentator Josh Udall views the visit as more than just symbolic. He believes it presents a chance to rebuild strained India-Canada relations.

A Critical Opportunity for Bilateral Reset

Udall, known for his political insight and behavioural research, described Modi’s visit as a “pivotal moment.” In an interview, he stressed that this summit could serve as a turning point, especially under the new leadership of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. According to Udall, Modi’s likely meeting with Carney might help undo the diplomatic frost that developed during Justin Trudeau’s time in office.

Carney Focuses on Trade, Not Political Tensions

Udall described Carney as someone who specializes in economic strategy. “Mark Carney is the economic guy. He’s the one you call in a crisis,” he said. He suggested that Carney would prioritise restoring economic ties, particularly with India, now the world’s fourth-largest economy. Udall added that Carney’s focus on trade comes with limited awareness of the deeper political issues, especially the Khalistan matter.

Khalistan Issue: A Blind Spot in Canada

Udall openly acknowledged that Canada lacks the political will to address the Khalistan issue—India’s major security concern. He pointed out a serious knowledge gap among Canadians, saying, “Most Canadians have no idea. They’ve heard snippets on CBC or CTV… but they don’t understand the long and complicated history.”

He also noted that Khalistani voices dominate media narratives in Canada, while Indian nationalist or Hindu perspectives rarely find space. “It’s mostly Khalistani voices getting airtime. That dangerously shapes public perception,” he warned.

India’s Image in Canada Under Pressure

Due to limited context, Udall said many Canadians wrongly see India as a meddling foreign force. “To Canadians, India is starting to feel like the new Russia—accused of meddling in elections and domestic politics,” he explained. This view, he argued, makes it very difficult for Canada to act on India’s extradition requests for 26 individuals allegedly linked to extremist activities.

Modi Needs to Tie Security Demands to Trade

In Udall’s view, Modi must connect security demands—such as tackling Khalistani extremism—to economic deals. “If Modi wants movement on the Khalistan issue or extradition demands, he’s going to have to tie those to economic incentives. That’s the only language that might move Carney,” he said. Udall added that Carney lacks a deep understanding of the historical and political context, and will only act if there’s something of value at stake.

Domestic Politics Adds to the Complexity

Canada’s internal political scene also complicates things. Udall believes Carney will ignore protests from Sikh groups against Modi’s visit, as that aligns with his no-nonsense approach. However, unless Canadian voters or political consequences apply pressure, Carney is unlikely to prioritise India’s concerns.

A New Political Era Opens a Door

Udall pointed to the leadership transition from Trudeau and Jagmeet Singh to Carney as a key moment for change. He recalled that Trudeau’s India policy was shaped by political alliances with the NDP and Singh, who has faced criticism for alleged ties to pro-Khalistan groups.

Now, with both figures out of leadership, Udall sees an opportunity. “Carney’s gesture of inviting Modi is a sign: let’s forget the past and focus on mutual benefit. It’s a soft restart — an olive branch,” he said.

A Slow but Promising Road Ahead

Udall called the G7 meeting a “watershed moment.” He said the tone struck by Modi and Carney could determine the next phase of India-Canada relations. However, he cautioned that change will be gradual. “This won’t be a one-meeting fix. It’s going to be a long game for both leaders. Modi wants action on extremism; Carney wants trade. They’ll have to negotiate those interests delicately.”

Even if no immediate agreements on extradition or security are made, Udall believes simply opening up regular communication would be a success. “Diplomacy is momentum. If this meeting goes well, it builds trust. And from trust comes progress.”

A Moment to Rebuild After Years of Strain

As Modi interacts with global leaders at the G7, his meeting with Carney might define a new chapter in India-Canada ties, which have long hovered between cooperation and conflict.

Udall summed up the moment clearly: “This is a pivotal moment. Both sides need something — India wants a crackdown on extremism; Canada wants new trade partners. If they can meet halfway, it’ll be a major win for both democracies.”

Whether this summit becomes a passing headline or a major milestone will depend on what steps follow. But for the first time in years, both countries appear ready to talk.