The Group of Seven (G7) nations on Wednesday reaffirmed their support for Ukraine, backed the US-Iran peace understanding and underscored the need for a free and open Indo-Pacific, as leaders adopted a wide-ranging statement on key geopolitical challenges at the summit in Evian.
In a strong message to Moscow, the G7 leaders pledged to step up military and economic support to Kyiv, including enhanced air defence systems, interceptors and long-range capabilities. The grouping also signalled readiness to facilitate greater Ukrainian defence production through licensing arrangements.
Expressing solidarity with the Ukrainian people, the leaders announced plans to tighten sanctions on Russia, particularly targeting the oil and gas sectors. They said the move comes at a time when US President Donald Trump had secured an agreement to reopen Strait of Hormuz, easing concerns over global energy supplies.
On West Asia, the G7 welcomed the recent understanding reached between the US and Iran, describing it as a historic opportunity to prevent Tehran from acquiring nuclear weapons and address concerns related to its ballistic missile and regional activities.
The leaders said they were prepared to support implementation of the agreement and called for a broader diplomatic follow-up involving regional stakeholders and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Reiterating that Iran must never obtain nuclear weapons, the G7 endorsed efforts aimed at ensuring long-term peace and security in the region.
The statement also backed a multinational maritime security initiative led by France and the UK to restore confidence in shipping through Strait of Hormuz and ensure the removal of sea mines. Stressing that freedom of navigation remains the foundation of international trade, the leaders committed themselves to diversifying global energy routes and increasing strategic reserves.
On Lebanon, the G7 called for an immediate and durable ceasefire and supported efforts by the Lebanese leadership to disarm Hezbollah and establish a state monopoly over weapons. It also pledged to accelerate humanitarian and reconstruction assistance in Gaza while urging an end to violence in the West Bank.
Turning to the Indo-Pacific, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a rules-based order and opposed any unilateral attempts to alter the status quo by force or coercion in the East and South China Seas, and across Taiwan Strait.
The G7 voiced deep concern over North Korea’s nuclear and ballistic missile programmes and called for complete denuclearisation in line with UN Security Council resolutions. It also highlighted the need for coordinated action against Pyongyang’s cybercrimes and cryptocurrency thefts.
The grouping welcomed Global Convergence for Growth Summit convened by French President Emmanuel Macron earlier this month, which was attended by China, and said efforts to address persistent global economic imbalances would continue through the G20 during the US’ presidency and other international forums.
