The three-day 2024 Group of Seven (G7) summit began on June 13, 2024, in Borgo Egnazia, Italy. Despite being located far from major population centers, protests erupted in nearby Brindisi. Demonstrators criticized the G7 for its handling of environmental issues, social justice, and global peace, displaying Palestinian flags and anti-G7 slogans.
Key topics at the summit include the Ukraine crisis, Gaza conflicts, relations with the Global South, AI management, African issues, and climate change. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attended, securing a long-term security accord with the U.S. and a $4.5 billion aid promise from Japan. The G7 also agreed on a $50 billion loan package for Ukraine, backed by interest from frozen Russian assets, which Russia criticized as criminal.
The leaders addressed various global challenges, expressing concerns over Gaza and China’s industrial policies. The EU announced tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, prompting strong opposition from China. Many G7 leaders face domestic political struggles, with potential changes in leadership likely in the near future.
Source – CGTN