The Group of Seven leaders convened in Canada for the annual summit, with a focus on addressing pressing global issues such as the Israel-Iran conflict, U.S. tariffs, and the ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney outlined priorities for the summit, emphasizing the need to strengthen peace and security, build critical mineral supply chains, and create jobs. Meanwhile, world leaders are wary of potential clashes with U.S. President Donald Trump, who has been vocal in threatening to annex the host nation and imposing tariffs on various countries.
The summit’s agenda is expected to center on de-escalating the Israel-Iran conflict, which has seen increased hostilities in recent days. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed his intentions for the summit, including calls for Iran to refrain from pursuing nuclear weapons, ensuring Israel’s right to defend itself, and promoting diplomacy to avoid conflict escalation. The situation remains volatile, with both nations engaging in attacks that have resulted in casualties, raising concerns about the potential for further escalation.
Historically, tensions between Trump and other G7 leaders, notably during the 2018 summit, have led to significant diplomatic disputes, particularly regarding trade agreements and statements. This year, Canada has opted for a more diplomatic approach, choosing to issue chair summaries rather than a comprehensive joint communiqué to avoid potential conflicts. Trump’s recent statements about trade and his intentions to negotiate new agreements have added to the anticipation surrounding the summit’s outcomes.
Other critical issues on the agenda include immigration, drug trafficking, and the development of artificial intelligence. Diplomats are focused on actions the seven G7 members can take collectively to address these challenges. With Trump planning to hold bilateral meetings with world leaders, including Canada’s Prime Minister, Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum, and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the summit is seen as a pivotal moment in navigating the complex geopolitical landscape.