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Current Affairs Deep Dive: G7 Summit, Canada & Strategic Diplomacy

Amid thawing India-Canada relations, PM Modi receives a G7 Summit invite from Canadian PM Mark Carney. This diplomatic shift offers critical insights for aspirants tackling international relations in UPSC, SSC, and PSC exams.

The G7 Summit: What Aspirants Must Know
The Group of Seven (G7) is an informal alliance of advanced economies: USA, UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, and Japan. Formed in 1973 amid oil crises and economic turmoil, it coordinates global macroeconomic policies. Though lacking a permanent secretariat, the G7 influences 40% of global GDP.

Why India’s Invitation Matters
India has attended every G7 Summit since 2019 (barring 2020). This year’s invite signals a diplomatic reset with Canada after 18 months of strained ties. Key developments:
Canada’s new PM Mark Carney extended the invite days after his election win.
Foreign Ministers Anita Anand (Canada) and S. Jaishankar (India) held ice-breaking talks in May 2025.
The Summit (June 15-17, Kananaskis) coincides with G7’s 50th anniversary—a likely UPSC question.

G7’s Relevance to Exams
For GS Paper III, focus on:
Structure & Mandate: No binding power; decisions ratified independently by members.
Challenges: Rising geopolitical competition from G20/BRIСS, climate policy gaps, and limited representation of emerging economies.
India’s Role: As a “guest invitee,” India advocates for Global South interests in forums like climate finance and tech governance.

India-Canada Relations: Quick Timeline
2023-2024: Diplomatic friction over Khalistani extremist allegations.
May 2025: Carney’s election victory opens doors for dialogue.
June 2025: Modi accepts G7 invite, signaling eased tensions—a potential case study for “conflict resolution” in mains answers.

Sample Questions & Answers
Q1: Which countries comprise the G7?
A: USA, UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan.
Q2: Why was the G7 formed in 1973?
A: To address the oil crisis, inflation, and collapse of the Bretton Woods monetary system.
Q3: How does the G7 differ from the G20?
A: G7 represents advanced economies; G20 includes emerging powers like India and China.
Q4: What is the strategic significance of India’s G7 invites since 2019?
A: Recognizes India’s role in global governance, especially climate action and supply chains.
Q5: Which constitutional inspiration does the G7 lack?
A: A permanent secretariat or legal framework (unlike the UN or WTO).