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This week, President Ursula von der Leyen was in Kananaskis, Canada, participating in this years G7 Summit.
In light of Russias war against Ukraine, instability in the Middle East, and Chinas economic actions, the G7 Summit serves as an important platform for discussing solutions among allies.
President von der Leyen commenced her agenda in Kananaskis with a press conference alongside European Council President António Costa.
She expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Mark Carney for hosting and outlined the EUs priorities, emphasizing the need to address global economic uncertainty, reduce dependencies from aggressive trade practices, and manage conflicts spanning from Ukraine to the Middle East.
The President highlighted the interconnectedness of these issues, stating: “Recent events have shown the increasing links between conflicts in Europe and the Middle East. Iranian drones and missiles are targeting cities in Ukraine and Israel, necessitating a unified response.”
On the summits sidelines, the President met US President Donald Trump to discuss ongoing EU-US trade negotiations and urged teams to expedite a fair agreement.
During sessions with fellow leaders, President von der Leyen initiated discussions on the global economic outlook and economic growth, security, and resilience.
A central theme in her remarks was the necessity to reduce trade volatility affecting consumers and businesses, focusing instead on shared challenges, particularly Chinas role in the global economy.
“China cannot claim to be a developing country while undermining international trade rules and intellectual property protections. This behavior distorts market competition,” President von der Leyen stated.
She reiterated the aim to de-risk economic relations with China by reducing dependencies on critical inputs and addressing Chinese overcapacity that threatens G7 industries.
At the summits conclusion, leaders endorsed a series of statements covering topics like a wildfire charter, a critical minerals action plan, and more, laying the groundwork for G7 cooperation.
Addressing interconnected conflicts from Ukraine to the Middle East
The G7 leaders also discussed current geopolitical challenges.
President von der Leyen reaffirmed the EUs commitment to Ukraine amidst ongoing Russian aggression, noting that the EU has provided nearly €150 billion in support.
She urged G7 partners to maintain pressure on Russia to negotiate and elaborated on the 18th sanctions package proposed this month.
Regarding the Middle East, leaders issued a statement reaffirming their commitment to peace and stability and support for Israels security.
“Iran is a major source of regional instability. We are clear that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons, and we call for de-escalation in the Middle East, including a ceasefire in Gaza,” the statement asserts.
Bilateral agenda
In addition to meeting President Trump, President von der Leyen held trilateral discussions with President Costa.
They met with Canadas Prime Minister Carney to prepare for the upcoming EU-Canada summit.
They also met UN Secretary-General António Guterres, where President von der Leyen expressed support for the UNs work and the EUs role in global finance.
Additionally, they met the newly elected President of the Republic of Korea, Lee Jae-myung, to discuss ongoing cooperation under the Security and Defence Partnership.
With Mexicos President Claudia Sheinbaum, President von der Leyen discussed bilateral cooperation and climate change within the context of the modernized EU-Mexico Global Agreement.
Finally, they met Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to initiate discussions on a Security and Defence Partnership and advance bilateral trade agreements.
More information
Statement by President von der Leyen at Session I of the G7, Global economic outlook
G7 Leaders statement on recent developments between Israel and Iran
Press release: Europe and Australia commit to Security and Defence Partnership