Germany To Invite PM Modi To G-7 Meet In Push To Isolate Russia

The German Chancellor has decided the G-7 should court India, with its growing population and long democratic tradition, as a potentially valuable partner in efforts to isolate Russia

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz plans to invite Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the special guest to a Group of Seven leaders' summit next month as part of an effort to forge a broader international alliance against Russia.

Germany, which currently holds the rotating G-7 presidency, will also welcome the leaders of Indonesia, South Africa and Senegal to the gathering in the Bavarian Alps June 26 to June 28, said people with knowledge of the matter. The decision could be announced as early as Monday, when Mr Scholz welcomes PM Modi for talks in Berlin and a joint German-Indian cabinet meeting.

Scholz was undecided on PM Modi's invitation until a few weeks ago given the prime minister's reluctance to condemn Russia's invasion   

But the German Chancellor has decided the G-7 should court India, with its growing population and long democratic tradition, as a potentially valuable partner in efforts to isolate Russia, according to the people, who spoke on condition of anonymity. Mr Scholz also sees an opportunity to work closely with PM Modi in other policy areas such as climate change and defense.