1st day of G7 summit marked by key developments

By Aysu Bicer

LONDON (AA) - The first day of the G7 Leaders' Summit hosted by Italy concluded Thursday with significant developments regarding various global issues.

Key discussions during the summit, which runs through Saturday, are centering on global conflicts, the rise of artificial intelligence and issues in Africa, with a particular focus on Italy’s ongoing concern about uncontrolled migration from the continent to Europe.

Other recurring topics such as climate change and China will also be on the agenda.

The US and Ukraine signed a pivotal 10-year bilateral security agreement on day one.

The pact, seen by Kyiv as a critical step towards NATO membership, was celebrated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as an “historic day.”

He expressed gratitude to US President Joe Biden and the American people for their steadfast support amid his country’s war with Russia.

At a joint press conference, Biden emphasized that the agreement would enhance Ukraine's strength, sustainability and resilience.

He also addressed the ongoing conflict with Russia, saying “Putin cannot wait us out. He cannot divide us.”

In a further boost to Ukraine's international support, a bilateral security agreement was signed with Japan.

The deal provides Ukraine with $4.5 billion in aid this year and ensures continued support for the next decade.

Zelenskiy lauded the agreement, highlighting Japan as one of the world’s most economically and technologically advanced countries and expressing appreciation for its unwavering support.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen praised a new agreement to guarantee a $50 billion loan to Ukraine.

The loan will be funded using profits from frozen Russian central bank assets held in Europe.

The UK, US and Canada meanwhile jointly accused Russia of plotting to interfere in Moldova’s upcoming presidential election and referendum on European Union membership.

In a pointed statement, the three nations accused Russian actors of “spreading lies” and “seeking to undermine Moldovan democratic institutions.”

The G7 is an informal forum that holds an annual summit to discuss economic policy and security issues. Its members include Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the UK and the US.