BARI, Italy (Reuters) – Group of Seven (G7) leaders are concluding their annual summit with China topping the agenda. Pope Francis is set to make a historic appearance to discuss artificial intelligence (AI).
The pope will be joined by 10 other heads of state and government, including India’s prime minister and Jordan’s king. This move by the G7 aims to dispel the notion of being an aloof, exclusive club by fostering inclusivity. It reflects a broader approach to global governance and collaboration.
During their first day in southern Italy, the G7 nations agreed to provide $50 billion in loans for Ukraine. They hailed the accord as a powerful signal of Western resolve, backed by interest from frozen Russian assets.
Although many details still need to be worked out, G7 members—the United States, Canada, Japan, Germany, France, Italy, and Britain—and the European Union (EU) are expected to contribute to the loan. The funds are slated to reach Kyiv by the end of the year, providing crucial financial support. This collective effort underscores international solidarity in addressing Ukraine’s economic challenges.
“This is a very historic step we’re taking today,” said German Chancellor Olaf Scholz.
“It is also a clear signal to the Russian President (Vladimir Putin), that he can’t just sit this out and hope that fiscal problems in a country that backs Ukraine will one day let him win this war,” he added.
While Ukraine dominated the first day of talks, China will be the key issue on Friday morning.
Moreover, the G7’s agenda underscores China G7 dominance in economic negotiations and geopolitical strategies.
In conclusion, as China asserts its dominance on the final day of the G7 summit, and Pope Francis leads discussions on AI.
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