PM Modi, Justin Trudeau, Joe Biden Captured Together at G20 Summit in Rio Amid Strained India-Canada Ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and US President Joe Biden shared the spotlight during the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The trio, captured in a group photograph at the Museum of Modern Art, engaged in brief interactions despite the tense backdrop of deteriorating relations between India and Canada.

The image, featuring Modi, Trudeau, and Biden, is symbolic, showcasing the convergence of world leaders amid pressing global challenges. This moment comes at a time when India-Canada ties are strained due to controversial allegations made by Trudeau last year. Trudeau accused Indian agents of involvement in the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar in Surrey, British Columbia—a claim India dismissed as baseless and absurd.

A Brief Interaction Despite Diplomatic Tensions

During the photograph, Biden, standing between Modi and Trudeau, was seen engaging with both leaders. The interaction highlights the importance of multilateral forums like the G20 in fostering dialogue, even among countries with conflicting bilateral issues.

India-Canada Relations Hit a New Low

India-Canada ties have been fraught with tension since Trudeau’s controversial remarks in September 2023. Nijjar, who was declared a terrorist by India, was shot dead outside a gurdwara in Canada. Following these allegations, diplomatic relations plunged further when Canada sought to investigate Indian diplomats, prompting a tit-for-tat withdrawal of envoys by both nations.

Adding fuel to the fire, pro-Khalistani radicals recently attacked a Hindu temple near Toronto. Indian officials condemned the attack, calling it a deliberate attempt to intimidate Indian diplomats and disrupt peace. Modi emphasized the need for justice, urging Canadian authorities to take stronger actions against such violent groups.

Global Leadership at the Forefront

As global leaders convene to address pressing issues, the photograph underscores the complex interplay of international diplomacy. The G20 Summit, hosted by Brazil, remains a critical platform for addressing global economic challenges and fostering cooperation, even amidst strained bilateral ties.

This brief yet significant interaction between Modi and Trudeau, with Biden mediating in the frame, reflects the need for constructive dialogue and mutual respect in resolving global and regional conflicts.