G7 Summit Live Updates: Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni after discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, and French President Emmanuel Macron.
- Location and Dates: The 50th G7 Summit is being held in Borgo Egnazia, Italy, from June 13 to 15.
- Primary Focus: Key discussions revolve around artificial intelligence (AI), energy, Africa, and the Mediterranean.
- Arrival in Italy: PM Narendra Modi, in his first foreign trip since starting his third term, arrived in Italy to attend the G7 Summit’s outreach session.
- Meetings:
- With Giorgia Meloni: PM Modi was welcomed by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. They discussed strengthening bilateral ties and mutual interests.
- With Volodymyr Zelenskyy: Discussions with the Ukrainian President focused on trade and the ongoing conflict.
- With Emmanuel Macron: Talks with the French President covered enhancing strategic partnerships in defence, nuclear energy, and space exploration.
- With Rishi Sunak: Engaged in discussions addressing bilateral and global issues.
- Financial Support for Ukraine: On the first day, G7 leaders agreed on a political outline to provide $50 billion in loans for Ukraine, funded by interest from frozen Russian sovereign assets.
- India’s Role: This marks PM Modi’s fifth consecutive G7 summit attendance, highlighting India’s increasing role in global discussions. Modi emphasized India’s commitment to addressing global challenges, particularly those affecting the Global South.
- Focus on AI and Energy: Sessions will include ethical development of AI and global energy challenges.
- Africa and the Mediterranean: Addressing development and security issues in these regions.
- Meeting with Pope Francis: PM Modi met Pope Francis, adding a significant diplomatic engagement to his visit.
- Historical Context: India’s regular presence at G7 summits underscores its growing influence in addressing global issues. PM Modi aims to align the outcomes of the G20 Summit held under India’s presidency with the G7 discussions.
Prime Minister Modi’s active participation in the G7 Summit demonstrates India’s pivotal role on the global stage, fostering international cooperation to tackle pressing issues. Stay tuned for further updates on his engagements and the summit’s progress.
