Modi-Trudeau bilateral meet at G20 likely to discuss steps to rein in global terrorism

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will hold a bilateral meeting with his Canadian counterpart Justin Trudeau at the two-day G-20 Summit which kicked off at Bali on Tuesday.

According to diplomatic sources, among other things, Modi is likely to broach the issue of global terrorism, especially the separatist activities being carried out by Khalistanis from Canadian soil. This issue soured relations between the two countries as Canada dragged its feet on New Delhi’s requests to rein in anti-India elements.

The signing of the open skies Air Transport Agreement on Monday between Canada and India marks an improvement in relations. Under the agreement designated airlines of the two countries will be able to operate unlimited direct flights to stations of their choice, doing away with the cap of 35 flights per week applicable for a long time.

Just before leaving for the G20 summit, Canada’s Foreign Minister Melanie Joly said that India’s leadership and its influence were expected to grow further on the global stage. It could be seen as the world’s largest democracy that was an alternative supply chain to China on the economic front.

“As we consider the rising influence of China, we must also take into account the remarkable trajectory of India, the world’s largest democracy,” Joly said while addressing the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada in Toronto.

She explained, “as India becomes the most populous country in the world, its leadership and influence will only continue to grow, both in the region and globally. With it, so will the opportunity for Canada – including the economic opportunity for Canadian businesses.”

The other issues likely to come for a discussion between Modi and Trudeau pertain to defense, trade, climate change, the exchange of technology, and matters of interest to the 5 million-strong Indian diaspora in Canada.

A large number of Indian-origin politicians occupy key positions in the federal Trudeau government. The provincial parliaments and governments also have a considerable presence of Indian immigrants.

On the other hand, Trudeau is expected to seek India’s support for Canada’s position on various issues related to world politics, especially the Russian-Ukraine war. Trudeau is also expected to touch on the issue of pan-Islamic terrorism which is fast spreading and threatening world peace