For the first time in six years, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is unlikely to attend the upcoming G7 summit, scheduled to be held in Alberta, Canada, from June 15 to 17. This potential absence marks a significant shift in India’s foreign engagement, as Modi has consistently participated in G7 summits since 2019 as a special invitee. However, no official invitation has been extended by the Canadian government this year. Diplomatic tensions between New Delhi and Ottawa, particularly over the Canadian government’s perceived leniency towards Khalistani separatist activities, are believed to be a major reason for Modi’s expected absence. India remains cautious about relations with Canada, especially with uncertainty surrounding the direction of the newly elected government in Ottawa.
Back home, political dynamics are also heating up. Senior Congress leader Salman Khurshid has stirred debate by questioning the sincerity of domestic political loyalties while promoting messages of unity and collaboration on the international stage. His remarks underscore ongoing divisions within Indian politics, even as the nation attempts to present a united front abroad.
In the economic sphere, Union Minister for Heavy Industries clarified that Tesla has no immediate plans to manufacture vehicles in India. Instead, the electric vehicle giant is focusing on setting up showrooms and expanding its retail presence. This comes amid ongoing discussions around attracting global EV players to invest in Indian manufacturing.
Meanwhile, political developments in Bihar saw Union Minister Chirag Paswan hint at a possible return to active state-level politics, potentially reshaping regional alliances.
Internationally, Ukraine’s military intensified its counteroffensive efforts with Operation “Spider’s Web,” targeting multiple Russian airbases. According to reports, the operation damaged at least 41 Russian aircraft, marking one of the most significant single-day hits to Russian air power since the war began.-TINBureau