Japan PM Ishiba leaves for Canada to attend G7 summit
Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Shigeru left for Canada on Sunday to attend the Group of Seven summit of world leaders.
The meeting will be held in the mountain resort of Kananaskis, in the western part of Canada, starting from Monday.
G7 leaders are predicted to address urgent issues, such as the escalating conflict in the Middle East. Russia's ongoing invasion of Ukraine and the global economy will also likely top the agenda.
Ishiba hopes to stress his stance to work for peace and stability of the international community, and confirm the importance of the G7's unity.
Before departing for Canada, Ishiba said: "We're facing various challenges. Among them are the international situations that are becoming more serious, the global economy, global security and emerging technologies. I'd like to talk frankly with the G7 leaders about these matters."
Ishiba also noted he intends to put forth Japan's position as the only G7 member from Asia. The prime minister stressed he wants to explain what Japan can do to help maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific.
On the sidelines of the G7 summit, Ishiba is expected to meet US President Donald Trump to discuss tariffs.
He said he would like to discuss doing everything in his power to realize an agreement that will benefit both nations.
Ishiba is also expected to hold other talks on the fringes of the G7 summit. These include his first bilateral in-person meetings with the heads of invited countries, such as South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
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