The 51st G7 Summit, held in Kananaskis, Alberta, Canada, from June 15 to 17, 2025, addressed several pressing global issues but was significantly impacted by U.S. President Donald Trump’s early departure to address the escalating Israel-Iran conflict. Here are the key outcomes and developments based on available information:
- Middle East Conflict: The summit was overshadowed by the intensifying Israel-Iran conflict, which prompted Trump to leave early on June 16, 2025, after signing a broad G7 statement on the Middle East. The statement labeled Iran as the “principal source of regional instability and terror,” reiterated that Iran must not acquire nuclear weapons, and urged a broader de-escalation, including a ceasefire in Gaza. However, Trump’s abrupt exit disrupted planned discussions, particularly on Ukraine, where he was scheduled to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
- Global Trade and Tariffs: Trade tensions, driven by Trump’s tariff policies, were a major focus. The U.S. had imposed a 25% tariff on Canadian autos and 50% on steel and aluminum, with Canada retaliating with its own 25% tariffs on U.S. imports. Japan and the EU were negotiating to avoid higher duties before a July 9 deadline. Bilateral trade talks occurred on the sidelines, but no major trade deals were announced. The decision to forgo a traditional final communiqué, opting instead for six short joint statements, aimed to avoid the disunity seen in previous summits, notably in 2018.
- Key Agenda Items: Canada, as G7 president, set three core priorities: protecting communities globally, building energy security and accelerating digital transition, and securing future partnerships. Discussions resulted in agreements on artificial intelligence (AI), wildfires, critical minerals, transnational repression, quantum technology, and addressing irregular migration. These were outlined in the G7 Chair’s Summary, emphasizing coordinated action on critical mineral supply chains and leveraging AI and quantum technologies for economic growth.
- Ukraine Support: The G7 reaffirmed its commitment to Ukraine amid Russia’s ongoing invasion. The summit built on prior G7 commitments, such as the Rapid Response Mechanism for collective action and support for Ukraine’s reconstruction and EU integration. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy attended as an invited guest, highlighting the group’s focus on international peace and security.
- Climate and Technology: While climate change was not a standalone priority, it was integrated into discussions, particularly regarding global wildfire response and clean energy transitions. The G7 emphasized regulating emerging technologies like AI, with Canada pushing for initiatives like the AI for Development program.
- Participation and Absences: Leaders from G7 nations (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK, and the U.S.) attended, along with EU representatives. Invited non-G7 leaders included those from Australia, Brazil, India, Mexico, South Africa, South Korea, and Ukraine. Notably, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto declined to attend, opting for meetings with Singapore and Russia instead. Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s attendance remained unconfirmed.
- Bilateral Engagements: Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney held bilateral talks with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, establishing an Economic and Trade Working Group and deepening the UK-Canada Trade Continuity Agreement. These talks also addressed the Middle East crisis, with Starmer advocating for de-escalation.
- Security and Protests: Extensive security measures, including a controlled access zone from June 10 to 18, were implemented in Kananaskis, with road closures and RCMP oversight. A designated demonstration zone was set up in Banff, reflecting concerns about potential protests, though no major disruptions were reported.
The summit’s outcomes were constrained by Trump’s early exit and the focus on immediate crises, particularly in the Middle East. While agreements on AI, critical minerals, and Ukraine support were highlighted, the lack of a comprehensive communiqué and unresolved trade tensions underscored challenges to G7 unity. For further details, the official G7 Chair’s Summary is available through the G7’s official channels.