New Delhi, Nov 22 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Chair Virtual G20 Summit; Trudeau’s Participation Amid Strained India-Canada Ties
Against the backdrop of the Israel-Hamas conflict, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to chair a virtual summit of G20 leaders on Wednesday. Notably, this will mark the first virtual interaction between Modi and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau since tensions escalated between India and Canada. Trudeau’s participation comes amidst strained ties following his allegations in September regarding the “potential” involvement of Indian agents in the killing of Khalistani separatist Hardeep Nijjar. India, which designated Nijjar as a terrorist in 2020, rejected Trudeau’s claims as “absurd” and “motivated.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese Premier Li Qiang are confirmed participants in the virtual meeting. The summit, described as “rare and exceptional,” offers Modi a platform to engage with world leaders for the second time during India’s G20 Presidency. The discussions are expected to focus on development, with leaders potentially addressing various global challenges. Notably, the virtual meeting follows a temporary ceasefire approval between Israel and Hamas, adding significance to the deliberations. The G20 summit aims to address gaps in global governance, reaffirm commitments to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and progress toward a revitalized multilateral system.
The virtual summit takes place after an extraordinary meeting of BRICS leaders on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. While Economic Affairs Secretary Ajay Seth anticipates momentum and guidance on finance-related issues, the primary focus remains on discussions regarding the Gaza situation. Israel’s extensive military operation in Gaza, prompted by attacks on Israeli cities by Hamas militants, has raised international concern. The meeting is crucial for global leaders to share views and enhance cooperation on critical challenges amid the ongoing geopolitical landscape.
