G7 leaders may skip joint declaration, 1st since 2014: Japan source

The Mainichi

2 days ago

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Group of Seven nations are likely to skip a joint statement at the end of an upcoming three-day summit in Canada, a Japanese government source said Tuesday, marking the first time since 2014 the meeting would conclude without a consensus document.
The move is apparently aimed at preventing the G7, known for its unity in tacking global challenges, from exposing internal divisions as leaders gather for their first in-person meeting since U.S. President Donald Trump took office in January.
Canada holds this year's rotating presidency of the G7, which also includes Britain, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States plus the European Union. Fears are growing that the framework is becoming fragile as Trump pursues his "America First" policy.
Instead of releasing a comprehensive statement, the G7 leaders may still consider mapping out documents on specific issues, according to the source.
The gathering comes as Trump, who has promoted protectionist trade policies to prop up domestic industries, has moved to impose higher tariffs -- even on U.S. allies -- sparking concerns about global commerce and the broader economy.
The G7 leaders normally discuss a range of issues, such as security, the economy and climate change.