The second day of the G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, presented a striking image, capturing Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, U.S. President Joe Biden, and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau together in one frame. The leaders, joined by other world figures, stood side by side for the photo-op.
PM Modi and Trudeau stood just a feet or two apart from each other, with Joe Biden in between.
For PM Modi and Trudeau, the moment came against a backdrop of rapidly deteriorating relations between India and Canada. The discord stems from Canada sheltering Khalistani extremists, who have been fanning hatred against Indians.
Tensions Over Khalistani Extremism
Recent incidents, including the attack on a Hindu temple in Brampton, Canada, by Khalistani extremists, have exacerbated the strained ties. The extremists, seen by India as a threat to its sovereignty, have found shelter in Canada, where Trudeau’s government has been criticized for not taking decisive action against them.
Trudeau’s reluctance to crack down on these groups has been attributed to his political calculations. Khalistani sympathizers are believed to form a part of Trudeau’s voter base, and with his popularity waning domestically, his government appears hesitant to alienate this bloc.
A Fragile Moment at G20
While the photo-op at the G20 Summit showcased the outward unity of world leaders addressing global challenges, the underlying friction between India and Canada could not be ignored. Modi and Trudeau’s interactions at the summit were reportedly minimal, reflecting the chill in their diplomatic relations.
By contrast, Modi’s engagements with Biden underscored a deepening partnership between India and the United States. The two leaders have strengthened ties on trade, defense, and technology in recent years, standing in stark contrast to the unease with Canada.
Trudeau’s Declining Popularity
Trudeau, who has been facing mounting challenges at home, including criticism over his economic policies and governance, finds himself increasingly isolated on the international stage. His handling of India-Canada relations and pandering to extremist elements have drawn sharp criticism.
Global Cooperation Amid Disputes
Despite bilateral tensions, the G20 Summit remains a platform for addressing collective global challenges. Leaders like PM Modi and Biden have championed issues ranging from climate change to digital innovation, seeking common ground amid diverse national interests.
The photo from Rio de Janeiro will stand as a reminder of the complex interplay of diplomacy, where moments of unity coexist with deep-seated disagreements. As the world looks to its leaders for solutions to pressing global problems, navigating such tensions will remain an essential task for all involved.
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