Leaders from G7 countries are gathered in Kananaskis, Canada amidist the ongoing geopolitical challenges.
With rising tensions between Israel and Iran, peace still elusive in Ukraine and U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariffs prompting a global trade war, there is a lot to talk about and plenty to disagree on.
The summit kicked off on Sunday, June 15-17. Several non-G7 leaders including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was invited, though his attendance remains uncertain. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is also attending, along with leaders from Australia, Brazil, Indonesia, South Africa and South Korea.
“There will be tough questions from other leaders around the table to Donald Trump,” said Julia Kulik of the G7 Research Group.
She said Trump may face pressure to explain the US stance and manage de-escalation with Israel.
Robert Rogowsky from the Middlebury Institute said the conflict is unavoidable at the summit.
“That attack, counterattack, and the US declaration that it was not involved… creates the possibility of a real, all-out war,” he said.
G7 leaders plan to discuss energy security, digital transition and global trade partnerships.
Carney is expected to push for friendlier global supply chains and critical mineral agreements.
Following the May G7 finance meeting, leaders pledged to monitor “nonmarket policies and practices” that distort global trade.
Though China wasn’t named, experts believe the statement targeted China’s lending and trade practices.
Concerns over China’s military presence and Taiwan tensions will also feature in conversations.
Trump plans meetings with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.
Both seek to finalise trade deals ahead of July to avoid reciprocal tariffs.
Trump, Carney and Sheinbaum may convene for North American trade and border security discussions.
Canada and Mexico previously boosted border controls to prevent fentanyl trafficking and avoided new US tariffs.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will also meet Trump again during the summit.
Trump earlier accused South Africa of “genocide” against white farmers. The US relocated 59 white South Africans in May.
