Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, and US President Joe Biden were captured together during the G20 Summit’s family photo in Rio de Janeiro on November 19, 2024. The moment comes against the backdrop of strained India-Canada relations, which have been deteriorating since last year.
The leaders briefly interacted during the group photograph session held at the Museum of Modern Art in Rio. Modi and Trudeau were seen engaging with Biden, who stood between them.
India-Canada Relations at Historic Low
Tensions between India and Canada escalated after Trudeau alleged in September 2023 that Indian agents were linked to the killing of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar outside a Surrey gurdwara. India dismissed the allegations as “absurd” and reaffirmed that Nijjar had already been declared a terrorist by New Delhi.
The situation worsened recently when Canada sought to question India’s envoy and five diplomats as “persons of interest” in connection with Nijjar’s death. India responded by withdrawing its diplomats and expelling six Canadian diplomats from New Delhi.
India has also criticized Canada for failing to curb the activities of Khalistan supporters, who it claims undermine India’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Attack on Hindu Temple in Canada
The relationship faced further strain earlier this month when pro-Khalistan radicals attacked a Hindu temple near Toronto during a consular camp organized by Indian officials.
Prime Minister Modi strongly condemned the violence, calling it a deliberate act to intimidate Indian diplomats.
“Such acts of violence will never weaken India’s resolve. We expect the Canadian government to ensure justice and uphold the rule of law,” Modi wrote on X.
G20 Summit and Symbolic Interactions
The G20 Summit provided a rare moment for Modi and Trudeau to share the spotlight despite their nations’ differences. The inclusion of President Biden in the frame underscored the intricate dynamics of international diplomacy amid rising geopolitical tensions.
