G7 summit opens in Canada with a focus on trade, wars — and not riling Trump
KANANASKIS, Alberta — When U.S. President Donald Trump last visited Canada for a Group of Seven summit, the enduring image was of him seated with his arms folded defiantly as then-German Chancellor Angela Merkel stared daggers at him.
The focus of this year’s G7 summit, starting Monday in Canada’s Rocky Mountains, is to avoid any potential conflicts amid escalating tensions worldwide.
In 2018, the summit concluded with Trump criticizing his Canadian hosts on social media and refusing to endorse the joint statement agreed upon by the G7 leaders.
Trump’s imposition of severe tariffs on numerous nations has raised concerns about a global economic slowdown, along with unresolved conflicts in Ukraine, Gaza, and the escalating Israel-Iran dispute over Tehran’s nuclear ambitions.
Challenges such as climate change, immigration, and China’s dominance in manufacturing pose additional hurdles for the G7 leaders to address.
As the summit kicks off, Trump remains focused on trade deals, hinting at potential new agreements while addressing existing tariffs and their impact on the global economy.
The importance of maintaining alliances and shared standards among G7 nations is a key point of contention, with Trump’s administration signaling a shift towards prioritizing its own economic goals over collective agreements.
Despite differing viewpoints, world leaders aim to foster positive relationships with Trump to mitigate potential conflicts and disagreements during the summit.
The summit agenda includes bilateral meetings between Trump and other leaders, highlighting the importance of diplomacy and cooperation in addressing global challenges.
Trade disputes, tariffs, and geopolitical tensions are expected to dominate discussions, as leaders seek common ground on economic policies and international relations.
The future of the G7 alliance hangs in the balance, with the Trump administration’s approach to trade and diplomacy shaping the outcome of this year’s summit.
Boak reported from Calgary, Alberta. Associated Press writer Jill Lawless contributed to this report.
