
Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney shares his candid assessment of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi following his recent visit to India. In this conversation with Lowy Institute Executive Director Michael Fullilove, Carney reflects on Modi’s leadership style, work ethic, and policy focus. Carney highlights Modi’s remarkable political journey – spending 25 years in public office without a single day off, first as Gujarat’s Chief Minister and then as India’s Prime Minister. He also discusses Modi’s strong emphasis on delivering benefits directly to citizens, particularly through financial reforms and digital systems like India’s UPI payments platform. The discussion goes beyond leadership traits to touch on the evolving India-Canada relationship, strategic cooperation, and the challenges both nations face, including security concerns and diplomatic tensions. Carney explains his approach of “vigilance and engagement” while emphasizing the progress both countries have made in rebuilding ties.