
The G7 summit in Canada has become a critical platform for world leaders to address pressing issues, including the ongoing trade war initiated by US President Donald Trump. The summit, which includes leaders from Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the US, aims to find solutions to the trade tensions that threaten global economic stability.
Trade is expected to be the primary focus of the summit, with Trump imposing a 10% baseline tariff on most countries represented at the G7, and additional levies on cars, steel, and aluminum from European countries and Japan. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney hosted the summit, where Trump emphasized trade as a key agenda item. “Trade would be the primary focus of the summit,” Trump stated, highlighting the significance of trade negotiations for Canada, particularly after the US announced extra levies on Canadian goods.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, along with French President Emmanuel Macron and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, plan to discuss the US trade threat with Trump directly. Merz noted, “Emmanuel Macron, Giorgia Meloni, and I are firmly resolved to try, over the next two days, to talk again with the US government to see if we can find a solution.” However, Merz added that “there will be no solution at this summit, but we may be able to get closer to a solution in small steps.”
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will discuss implementing the UK’s trade deal with the US during his one-on-one meeting with Trump. The UK signed a preliminary deal with Washington in May to avoid deeper tariffs, although the 10% baseline levy remains in place. Starmer expressed optimism, saying the deal is in its final stages and expects it to be completed “very soon”.
The summit coincides with escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, with the two countries exchanging attacks. Al Jazeera’s James Bay noted the diverse views within the G7, saying, “The problem with the G7 is that you have a range of views… President Trump on one end, who it seems will not even sign a statement on de-escalation… Japan was very different from the other countries, it was very, very strong in its condemnation of Israel’s attack on Iran”.
The trade tensions and conflict between Israel and Iran pose a significant risk to global economic stability. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen appealed for fair, predictable, and open trade, urging Trump to reconsider his tariff policies. As the G7 leaders navigate these complex issues, finding a solution that promotes global economic stability remains a top priority.