Africa, climate change and the economy at the heart of the G7 Summit

BARI (Italy) – Development in Africa, economic security, artificial intelligence and climate change are the main themes on the agenda of the G7 Summit (June 13-15), whose work is taking place in Bari (Italy), with the participation of the President of the Republic, Mr Abdelmadjid Tebboune.

During this event, the leaders of the seven Member States, as well as heads of state and government of a number of countries and international organizations, invited by Italy which holds the presidency, will address, alongside the regional and international issues, several themes linked to the development of emerging and developing countries.

The G7 Summit will focus in particular on development in Africa within the framework of dedicated dialogue sessions between G7 leaders and representatives of invited African Nations.

During the first day of the Summit, particular emphasis was placed on Africa, discussed with several government actors and international investors.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who chaired a session on Thursday dedicated to investments and infrastructure projects in Africa, stressed that “Italy pays particular attention to the African continent, with its difficulties and its opportunities.”

She also assured that the G7 member countries adhere to the “Mattei Plan” initiated by Italy in favor of Africa and which favors, she mentioned, “equal to equal cooperation with African nations “.

“This plan is already starting to bear fruit with the launch of the first pilot projects,” said Ms. Meloni, assuring that “Africa would continue to be a central subject of discussions, particularly during sessions devoted to migration and those including the Nations invited.

Among the investment projects for the continent, a railway corridor was mentioned which will connect central Africa and southern Africa. The project also includes the installation of telecommunications cables and other infrastructure in the region.

In this regard, Ms. Meloni said during the meeting that “Africa is asking for the opportunity to compete on an equal footing, which is not possible if it does not have infrastructure. We understand that so and we know that’s the priority that we need to work on.”

The Group of Seven (G7), which brings together Italy, Canada, France, Germany, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, plans to expand dialogue with the rest of the countries to address a wide range of global issues, including climate, food security and development issues.

APS