Canada is gearing up to host the G7 leaders’ summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, from June 15 to 17. With just a week to go, Prime Minister Mark Carney’s office has outlined the main goals for the gathering. A key focus will be on enhancing global peace and security, which includes addressing foreign interference and transnational crime, as well as improving wildfire responses.
Economic growth is another priority for Canada at the summit. The government aims to boost energy security, strengthen supply chains for critical minerals, and promote the use of artificial intelligence. Additionally, discussions will center on job creation through partnerships that open new markets and attract significant infrastructure investments.
Canada is also using the summit to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Leaders from outside the G7 have been invited to engage in conversations about establishing lasting peace and building coalitions with trustworthy partners.
Carney will welcome leaders from the G7 countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, Italy, and the European Union. Notably, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also received an invitation, despite tensions surrounding accusations against India by the RCMP regarding serious criminal activities against Sikh activists in Canada. This decision has sparked criticism from the NDP and various Sikh groups, who argue that prioritizing economic ties over human rights is misguided.
In addition to Modi, several other leaders have confirmed their attendance, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum is still considering her invitation.
The summit has come together quickly, with June being chosen as the date months ago, before the recent resignation of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the start of a federal election campaign. This timing has raised concerns about the government’s ability to effectively prepare for the event.
Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Anand emphasized that the ongoing investigation into the allegations against Indian agents will not be compromised by the invitation extended to Modi. She reiterated that the summit will provide a platform for discussing significant global issues while respecting the rule of law.
As the summit approaches, there are mixed feelings about the invitation to Modi, with some calling for a more structured approach to managing security concerns with India. The upcoming discussions will be crucial in shaping Canada’s international relationships and addressing pressing global challenges.