The G7 summit has begun in Évian, France, bringing together leaders of the world’s seven most industrialised economies from 15 to 17 June, just days after the announcement of a US–Iran agreement aimed at ending the conflict in the Middle East.
The summit takes place amid heightened geopolitical uncertainty, with discussions expected to focus on the implications of the deal, regional stability, and global economic pressures.
Middle East and Strait of Hormuz in focus
French President Emmanuel Macron said on Instagram that the agenda includes the consequences of the agreement, support for Lebanon, the long-term reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, and negotiations on Iran’s nuclear and ballistic programmes.
Talks on Tuesday will also include leaders from Egypt, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, expanding the discussions beyond the core G7 membership.
High-level meetings with Trump
US President Donald Trump is expected to meet Macron at 17:00 local time (18:00 Cyprus time) before attending the summit’s official dinner with leaders from Germany, Canada, Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom.
Several G7 members have been directly affected by recent US foreign policy moves, which have contributed to tensions across the Middle East and global trade systems.
Ukraine war also on the agenda
A key focus of the summit will be the war in Ukraine, with Macron seeking to secure stronger support from Trump for Kyiv and a firmer stance against Russian President Vladimir Putin.
US participation in a dedicated Ukraine session on Tuesday will include Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Economic tensions and global trade
The summit is also expected to address global economic imbalances, including tariffs and trade disputes.
Macron is expected to push for a gradual removal of tariffs imposed by the United States, while urging China to address concerns over industrial subsidies and domestic market imbalances.
Artificial intelligence and tech regulation
A special session will bring together global technology leaders, including OpenAI CEO Sam Altman and Anthropic CEO Dario Amodei, to discuss artificial intelligence regulation and restrictions on children’s access to social media platforms.
The French presidency aims to advance discussions on a regulatory framework for emerging technologies and digital safety.
A “crisis summit” for global coordination
French officials have described the meeting as a “crisis summit”, stressing the need for coordination among G7 members and invited countries, including Brazil, India, Kenya, South Korea and Egypt.
A European diplomatic source said the goal is to ensure the G7 remains an effective global forum ahead of the US taking over its presidency in 2027.
Also read: Tariffs, Middle East and Turkey report on EU plenary agenda
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