In an unexpected turn of events, the leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) nations released a joint statement ahead of the conclusion of their annual summit in the historic city of Hiroshima.
The G7 Hiroshima Leaders’ statement, which was initially issued in a single English version on Saturday afternoon, underwent two subsequent revisions before being distributed to the on-site media by Japan’s foreign ministry later in the evening.
This departure from the norm, releasing the joint statement prior to the summit’s scheduled conclusion, has raised eyebrows among observers.
Traditionally, G7 summits hosted by Japan culminate with the issuance of a statement in both English and Japanese on the final day of the gathering. However, in this instance, the leaders opted for an early release, deviating from the established protocol.
Speculation abounds regarding the reasons behind this unexpected move. Some media reports suggest that the intention was to draw attention to the visit of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is making waves with his high-profile presence at the summit.
Zelensky arrived in Hiroshima on Saturday and is scheduled to participate in a dedicated session focused on Ukraine with the G7 leaders on the forthcoming Sunday.
Comprising the United States, Britain, Italy, France, Germany, Canada, and Japan, the G7 represents a coalition of some of the world’s most influential democracies.
As the annual summit commenced on Friday in Hiroshima, it was met with waves of protests in the city. Hundreds of demonstrators hailing from different parts of Japan and even from overseas flocked to Funairi Daiichi Park which is located in close proximity to the summit venue.
Their united voices were raised in opposition to what they perceive as a finger-pointing bloc, which propagates its own vision of global order, triggering concerns and sparking debates among activists and concerned citizens alike.
This surprising pre-summit release of the joint statement by the G7 leaders has undoubtedly added an extra layer of intrigue to an already significant gathering. As the summit proceeds, all eyes remain fixed on the outcomes and commitments outlined in this unprecedented early declaration.
The international community eagerly anticipates further details regarding the shared perspectives and plans articulated by the G7 leaders, particularly in light of President Zelensky’s participation and the attendant focus on Ukraine. (Edited)
