Kashmir,June 19, 2025– On the sidelines of the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta, Prime Minister Narendra Modi gifted a handcrafted Papier Mâché box adorned with gold leaf work from Jammu and Kashmir to Salma Lakhani, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta. The gesture, made during Modi’s visit to Canada from June 16-17, 2025, showcased India’s rich artisanal heritage while reinforcing cultural ties between India and Canada.
The intricately designed Papier Mâché box, a hallmark of Kashmiri craftsmanship, is crafted through the traditional ‘sakhtsazi’ method, where recycled paper pulp is molded, dried, and embellished with vibrant colors and gold leaf accents. This unique gift symbolises the enduring legacy of Jammu and Kashmir’s artistry and Modi’s commitment to promoting India’s cultural treasures globally.
Attending his sixth consecutive G7 Summit, Modi engaged with leaders from the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Japan, Italy, Canada, and the European Union. His visit, the first to Canada in ten years, aimed to strengthen India-Canada relations amid recent diplomatic tensions. Alongside the gift to Lakhani, Modi presented a Brass Bodhi Tree sculpture to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, highlighting India’s diverse craftsmanship.
The summit, focused on global challenges like energy, technology, and AI, provided Modi a platform to advance India’s diplomatic outreach. However, his visit faced protests from pro-Khalistani groups in Calgary and Ottawa over the 2023 killing of Sikh activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar, a case that has strained bilateral ties.
Modi’s gift to Salma Lakhani not only celebrated India’s cultural heritage but also served as a bridge for goodwill, emphasising shared values despite geopolitical challenges.
