Amid the noise of Khalistani protests and Trump’s provocative remarks on India-Pakistan ties, the 2025 G7 summit in Canada holds far deeper strategic implications. With rising geopolitical uncertainty and internal discord plaguing the G7, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s presence offers India a rare diplomatic opportunity.
Once a beacon of unity among major democracies, the G7 now grapples with internal strife across trade, climate, tech, and security — from Ukraine to the Indo-Pacific. Although India isn’t a formal member, its regular participation allows it to shape discussions and enhance its global footprint.
Historically, Western disunity is nothing new. Prior to India’s independence, Western powers clashed abroad over colonies and markets, even as they developed capitalist economies at home. The Cold War masked many of these divides, but post-Soviet unity soon cracked, with France warning of US “hyperpower” dominance as early as the 1990s. France’s early calls for multipolarity align with India’s current strategic vision.
Tensions have returned sharply under Trump’s revived unilateralism. His trade tariffs, disdain for European liberalism, and meddling in EU politics have left allies uneasy. Differences on Israel, Iran, defence spending, and climate policy only deepen the rift. Canadian PM Mark Carney, hosting his first summit, has even dropped the traditional joint communiqué due to lack of consensus.
For India, the real focus must lie in leveraging this divide — by strengthening bilateral ties, safeguarding national interests, and reinforcing its position in the emerging multipolar order.
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