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Latest news on the G7, covering Group of Seven summits, member nations, economic policy, sanctions, Ukraine, and global diplomacy.

The G7, or "Group of Seven", is an informal bloc of major advanced economies comprising the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and Canada, alongside the European Union. Formed in the 1970s, it has become one of the world's most influential forums for coordinating economic policy, security strategy and responses to global crises. Leadership of the group rotates annually among its members, with each presidency setting priorities for that year's summit.

Recent summits have tackled pressing global challenges including support for Ukraine against Russia's invasion, sanctions on Moscow's energy sector, and coordinated responses to conflict in the Middle East, including efforts to stabilise the Strait of Hormuz. Leaders have also addressed industrial overcapacity and unfair trade practices linked to China, alongside growing global economic imbalances driven by debt, deregulation and underinvestment in developing economies. Discussions increasingly cover the safe development of artificial intelligence and its risks to young people.

G7 summits regularly draw controversy, from protests over globalisation and climate policy to security operations that place strain on host regions. Some critics question the group's legitimacy given it excludes major emerging economies such as China, India and Brazil, prompting recent presidencies to invite partner nations and non-member leaders into side discussions. Debate also persists over whether joint declarations translate into meaningful action on issues like debt relief, migration and public health emergencies.

Beyond geopolitics, G7 summits carry cultural and human significance for host communities, who often see substantial investment in security, infrastructure and hospitality. Host towns gain global visibility, though residents frequently face travel disruption and heightened security measures, including temporary border controls in neighbouring countries. Civil society groups and the private sector are increasingly consulted on issues like digital regulation, reflecting a broader shift towards more inclusive summit formats.

The G7's roots trace back to the 1973 oil crisis, when major economies sought a forum for coordinated response outside of larger, slower-moving international bodies. Russia was included as an eighth member between 1998 and 2014 before being suspended following its annexation of Crimea, restoring the G7 format still used today. This history shapes ongoing debates about the group's role alongside larger forums such as the G20.

Our NewsNow feed on the G7 delivers constantly updated headlines covering summits, member nation policy, sanctions, diplomatic statements and emerging global challenges. Whether you follow international relations closely or want a quick overview of major decisions affecting the world economy, this feed offers a reliable, up-to-date source for everything G7-related.