Phone call turns diplomatic as Modi prioritizes Quad and Canada outreach.
KANANASKIS, CANADA | June 18, 2025 — Prime Minister Narendra Modi, currently attending the G7 Summit in Canada as a special guest, has declined an invitation from former U.S. President Donald Trump to make a stopover in Washington, D.C., citing “pre-scheduled commitments,” according to India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri.
The decision, taken with diplomatic finesse, signals India’s strategic independence and prioritization of planned engagements over ad-hoc diplomacy — even when dealing with close partners like the United States.
Trump’s Surprise Invitation and Modi’s Response
During a 35-minute phone conversation, Trump personally requested Modi to visit the U.S. capital on his return journey from Canada. However, Modi conveyed his inability to accept the invitation, emphasizing a tight post-summit schedule. The MEA confirmed that while the leaders discussed regional issues, including the situation in the Middle East and South Asia, Modi politely declined the stopover proposal.
“Prime Minister Modi appreciated the invitation but expressed his inability to accept it at this moment due to prior commitments,” Foreign Secretary Misri stated.
Modi Reiterates India’s Stand on Kashmir Mediation
In a significant moment during the call, PM Modi reportedly clarified India’s position on the recent ceasefire along the Line of Control (LoC), emphasizing that the decision to halt Operation Sindoor was not influenced by U.S. mediation or trade pressure, but rather on a direct request from Pakistan and in line with India’s strategic calculations.
This comes amidst speculation that U.S. diplomacy played a role in the de-escalation — a claim India has strongly denied.
Trump Invited to Attend Quad Summit in India
While turning down the U.S. visit, Modi invited Trump to India to attend the upcoming Quad Summit, where leaders from India, the U.S., Japan, and Australia are expected to deliberate on Indo-Pacific security, technology, and trade.
Sources confirm that Trump “enthusiastically accepted” the invitation and expressed his desire to strengthen bilateral and regional cooperation.
Rebuilding Trust with Canada Amid Diplomatic Chill
PM Modi’s presence at the G7 also holds significance for India–Canada relations. He met with Canadian PM Mark Carney to reset diplomatic ties, which were strained in 2023 following the controversy around Khalistani leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. Both nations agreed to restore suspended services and reengage constructively.
Strategic and Diplomatic Takeaways
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Diplomatic Maturity: Modi’s firm yet courteous refusal to Trump’s request reinforces India’s image as a nation with a well-defined foreign policy.
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Bilateral Clarity: India maintains its stance on non-interference and bilateral resolution in matters like Kashmir, refusing third-party mediation.
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Global Posturing: Modi's balanced outreach to both the U.S. and Canada showcases New Delhi’s growing diplomatic influence on the world stage.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Modi’s decision to turn down a last-minute invitation from Donald Trump sends a clear diplomatic message — India will chart its own course, based on pre-determined commitments and sovereign policy interests. The move also sets the tone for a rebalanced international dialogue as India prepares to host the Quad Summit later this year.
