Ontario, Canada – Foreign ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) nations commenced meetings in Canada on Tuesday, with a broad agenda focused on pressing international crises. Discussions are expected to center on the ongoing conflict in Gaza, the deteriorating situation in Sudan, the war in Ukraine, and escalating tensions in the Caribbean region.
The G7 comprises Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Canadian Foreign Minister Anita Anand stated that the meetings would explore avenues for collective action to address the crisis in Sudan, emphasizing the need for all parties to respect international law. She also underscored the urgency of ensuring unhindered humanitarian aid access to Gaza, noting that while Canada has provided assistance, shipments remain stalled.
“For Canada, it is crucial to foster multilateral dialogue, especially in this volatile and complex environment,” Minister Anand stated.
Italy intends to raise the issue of the conflict in Sudan during the summit, advocating for increased humanitarian aid flows. The conflict has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis, with tens of thousands killed and millions displaced, according to United Nations estimates.
Diplomats hope to forge a unified stance on supporting Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.
The meetings will also address drug trafficking in the Caribbean region. France has voiced concerns regarding military operations in the region. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said upon arriving in Canada that Paris wants to “clearly avoid” any escalation, noting that “all G7 countries are concerned about the increase in drug trafficking and organized crime” and therefore “we have an interest in working together.”
The United States has recently conducted airstrikes on vessels suspected of involvement in drug trafficking in the Caribbean.
