On 26 and 27 May 2017, Italy hosted the meeting of the G7 leaders. The summit focused on foreign policy, the global economy and the reduction of inequalities, and the migration crisis.

Donald Tusk, President of the European Council, and Jean-Claude Juncker, President of the European Commission, represented the EU at the summit.

Leaders adopted the final communiqué, the roadmap on gender equity and they agreed an action plan on innovation, skills and labour. They also adopted the G7 Taormina Statement on the fight against terrorism and violent extremism.

Foreign policy

Regarding the Syrian war, leaders called for and end of the conflict through an inclusive Syrian-led political process under the auspices of the UN. They committed to increase their efforts to defeat international terrorism in Syria, in particular ISIS/ISIL/Da’esh and al Qaeda.

The G7 addressed the situation in Lybia, urging to advance on the path of political dialogue and national reconciliation.

In addition, leaders condemned North Korea‘s nuclear tests and ballistic missile launches. They called on North Korea to abandon all nuclear and ballistic missile programs in a complete, verifiable and irreversible manner.

Leaders also focused on the situation in Ukraine, calling for the full implementation of the Minsk agreements. They recalled that the duration of existing sanctions is clearly linked to Russia’s complete implementation of these agreements and its respect for Ukraine’s sovereignty.

Global economy

The G7’s top priority is to raise global growth to deliver higher living standards and quality jobs. Leaders reaffirmed their commitment to use all policy tools, including monetary, fiscal and structural, to achieve strong, sustainable, balanced and inclusive growth.

Reduction of inequalities

Leaders acknowledged that inequalities undermine confidence and limit future growth potential. They agreed to strengthen the capabilities and resilience of economies and communities to adjust to the pace of change, so that the global economy works for everyone.

The G7 recalled that promoting gender equality is crucial contribution to progress towards sustainable development. Leaders adopted the G7 roadmap for a gender-responsive economic environment with a view to foster the economic empowerment of women and girls.

Trade

Leaders reiterated their commitment to keep markets open and to fight protectionism, while standing firm against all unfair trade practices. They committed to adopting appropriate policies so that all firms and citizens can make the most of opportunities offered by the global economy.

The G7 called for the removal of all trade-distorting practices so as to foster a truly level playing field. Leaders also stressed the importance of the rules-based multilateral trading system, and they committed to working together to improve the functioning of the WTO.

Migration

Leaders called for coordinated efforts at the national and international level to address the large-scale movement of migrants and refugees. They agreed to establish partnerships to help countries create the conditions within their own borders that address the drivers of migration.

They also acknowledged the right of states to control their own borders and to establish policies in their own national interest.

Africa

Africa’s security, stability and sustainable development are high priorities for the G7. Leaders aim to strengthen cooperation and dialogue with African countries and regional organizations to develop African capacity in order to better prevent, respond to and manage crises and conflicts.

Innovation, skills and labour

Leaders adopted the G7 people-centered action plan on innovation, skills and labour. The action plan outlines a set of potential policy recommendations to increase competitiveness and to boost an innovation-driven growth that benefits all.