On the second day of the Group of Seven (G7) summit, leaders are shifting their focus to the pressing issue of migration following their significant commitment to financial aid to Ukraine.

Addressing Migration Challenges

The G7 summit, hosted in the luxurious resort of Borgo Egnazia in Italy’s southern Puglia region, is set to tackle the complex issue of migration. 

Italian Premier Giorgia Meloni, who is leading the discussions, aims to increase investment and funding in African nations to mitigate migratory pressures on Europe. The summit’s agenda also includes discussions on global conflicts, artificial intelligence, climate change, and China.

Tens of Billions Promised to Ukraine

The summit began with a major financial commitment to Ukraine, with the G7 nations pledging tens of billions of dollars in aid. This move underscores the international community’s support for Ukraine amid ongoing conflicts. 

However, internal disagreements have surfaced regarding the summit’s final declaration, particularly concerning the inclusion of references to abortion.

Putin Condemns Asset Freeze

In response to the G7’s financial manoeuvres, Russian President Vladimir Putin has denounced the freezing of Russian assets as “theft” and vowed retaliation. Putin’s comments follow the G7’s agreement to lock up sanctioned Russian assets until Moscow pays reparations for its invasion of Ukraine. 

This decision sets the stage for a $50 billion loan package for Ukraine, leveraging interest and income from over $260 billion in frozen Russian assets.

Abortion Reference Removed from Final Declaration

A senior EU official confirmed that the word “abortion” will not appear in the summit’s final communique. This change came after Italy, led by Meloni, lobbied for its removal.

While the communique will still reference promoting sexual and reproductive health rights, it will not repeat the detailed sections from the previous G7 summit in Hiroshima.

Biden’s Schedule at the Summit

President Joe Biden is set to meet with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Pope Francis on Friday before returning to the U.S. for a campaign fundraiser. 

Biden’s schedule also included a meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, where they signed a bilateral security agreement.

Ukraine-Japan Agreement

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio signed a 10-year agreement on the sidelines of the G7 summit. 

The accord includes security, defence, humanitarian aid, and financial support. Japan has committed $4.5 billion to Ukraine this year, adding to the over $12 billion already provided since March 2022.

Britain Announces New Sanctions

The UK has announced new sanctions targeting entities in China, Israel, Kyrgyzstan, and Turkey, as well as the Russian energy industry. These sanctions aim to degrade Russia’s ability to sustain its war effort in Ukraine by targeting logistics and military supplies.

Italy Joins African Rail Corridor Project

Italy is joining the Lobito corridor project in Africa, a collaborative effort by G7 nations to fund infrastructure projects. The corridor will connect southern and central Africa, bringing telecommunication cables and other infrastructure to the region. This project is seen as an alternative to China’s development efforts in Africa.

Pope Francis Meets World Leaders

Pope Francis, the first pope to address a G7 summit, is scheduled to meet several world leaders, including Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and U.S. President Biden. Francis’s participation underscores the summit’s significance and the broader global issues being addressed.

Summary

The G7 summit continues to address crucial global issues, from migration to international security and financial aid. 

With significant commitments made and critical discussions underway, the outcomes of this summit could have far-reaching implications for global politics and economic stability.

The information is taken from Hindustan Times and MSN