The G7 Foreign Ministers of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, the United States, and the High Representative of the European Union convened on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference for their first meeting under Canada’s 2025 G7 Presidency. The discussions centered on Russia’s war in Ukraine, security challenges in the Middle East and Indo-Pacific, and global stability concerns.
Support for Ukraine and Response to Russia’s Aggression
The G7 ministers reaffirmed their unwavering support for Ukraine, emphasizing their commitment to a free, sovereign, and independent nation. They pledged to continue enforcing robust security guarantees and holding Russia accountable for its war of aggression.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha joined the discussions, where the G7 reaffirmed:
- Their support for the G7 Joint Declaration of Support for Ukraine, which provides long-term security assistance.
- The use of extraordinary revenues from Russian sovereign assets to finance Ukraine’s recovery.
- Strengthening sanctions against Russia, particularly targeting energy exports, military suppliers, and financial networks.
The G7 also emphasized that any additional sanctions after February 2025 would depend on Russia’s willingness to engage in genuine peace negotiations.
Condemnation of China, Iran, and North Korea’s Military Assistance to Russia
The G7 ministers strongly condemned:
- China’s provision of dual-use technology that aids Russia’s war effort.
- Iran’s military assistance, including drone and missile transfers.
- North Korea’s direct military support, such as munitions shipments and intelligence-sharing.
They stressed the need for coordinated action to disrupt these military supply chains and prevent further escalation of the war.
Middle East Security and Israeli-Palestinian Peace
The G7 reaffirmed their commitment to a stable and peaceful Middle East, emphasizing support for a durable ceasefire in Gaza and the release of all hostages. They acknowledged Egypt, Qatar, and the United States’ diplomatic efforts in securing peace.
Key takeaways from their Middle East discussions:
- Hamas must not be allowed to reconstitute militarily or participate in governance.
- Israel has the right to defend itself, but within the bounds of international law.
- The importance of humanitarian aid expansion in Gaza.
They also welcomed the February 13 International Conference on Syria, hosted by France, and pledged to support Syria’s political transition in line with UN Security Council Resolution 2254.
The ministers commended Lebanon’s recent political progress, welcoming the election of President Joseph Aoun, the appointment of Prime Minister Nawaf Salam, and the formation of a new government.
Holding Iran Accountable
The G7 unequivocally condemned Iran’s destabilizing activities, citing:
- Its uranium enrichment beyond civilian justification.
- Support for terrorist groups and armed militias across the Middle East.
- Ballistic missile and drone proliferation.
- Repression of human rights and opposition figures.
They pledged to strengthen diplomatic and economic pressure to counter Tehran’s regional aggression.
Challenges in the Indo-Pacific and North Korea’s Threats
The G7 ministers expressed deep concern over China’s actions in the Indo-Pacific, particularly its militarization of the South China Sea and coercion against neighboring states. They reaffirmed their support for:
- Freedom of navigation and international law.
- Taiwan’s participation in global organizations.
- A peaceful resolution to cross-Strait tensions.
Regarding North Korea, they reiterated their demand for complete, verifiable, and irreversible denuclearization. They condemned Pyongyang’s arms deals with Russia and called for the immediate cessation of DPRK support for Moscow’s war. The ministers also urged North Korea to resolve the issue of abducted foreign nationals.
Addressing Global Crises in Africa and Latin America
The G7 addressed ongoing conflicts in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Sudan, Haiti, and Venezuela, stressing the need for international coordination to prevent further instability.
Looking Ahead to the Next G7 Meeting in Canada
The next G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting is set to take place in Charlevoix, Quebec, from March 12-14, 2025. The ministers pledged to maintain their unified stance against global threats and uphold international peace and stability.