G7 nations denounce China's military help to Russia and trade tactics
"The ongoing backing by China towards Russia's arms manufacturing permits Moscow to persist in its unlawful conflict in Ukraine, as per the final statement issued by the Italian G7 Presidency. The G7 urge China to halt the delivery of dual-use commodities, including weapon parts and equipment. Additionally, they threaten additional penalties against nations, including China, that aid Russia's war efforts materially.
The G7 pledges to aid Ukraine in its struggle for independence and reconstruction as long as it is required, as mentioned in the group's statement, which comprises Germany, Italy, the USA, Canada, the UK, France, and Japan. The collective efforts to disarm and dismantle Russia's military-industrial complex are being strengthened.
The G7 leaders concurred on Thursday to offer a loan of 50 billion Dollars (roughly 46 billion Euros) to Ukraine this year. The financing will be procured from the interest earnings on frozen Russian assets due to the Ukraine conflict.
This is meant to convey a "direct message" to Russian President Vladimir Putin, as stated in the statement. Putin responded angrily on Friday, denouncing it as "theft" and warning that it wouldn't go unpunished.
The G7 continue to be "gravely concerned" about China's activities in the South China Sea, including the Taiwan Strait, which China views as a rogue province. The group reiterates its "steadfast opposition to any unilateral attempts to alter the status quo by force or coercion." Criticism is leveled at the "dangerous deployment" of China's Coast Guard and Navy in the South China Sea and "the repeated hindrance of sea navigation freedom by China."
One of the crucial matters at the summit was understanding how Western economies could safeguard their economies from offloading subsidized goods from China without instigating an open trade war. The G7 express worries about China's "industrial policy and comprehensive non-market practices and methods." This results in "market distortions and harmful excess capacities in an increasing number of sectors."
The EU Commission announced on Wednesday that it would impose tariffs on electric cars from China from July 4. They justified the action with "unfair" subsidies for the Chinese electric car industry. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) still advocates for negotiations with the Chinese, as China is a significant market for German automobile manufacturers, and they fear EU tariffs may provoke countermeasures.
Owing to the pressure from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, who sees herself as a protector of an ultra-conservative Christian viewpoint, the right to abortion was omitted from the closing statement during the summit. There is now only a reference to the declaration of the previous summit, where this was recorded.
For the first time in the almost 50-year history of the G7, a Pope participated in the summit: Pope Francis participated in discussions on Artificial Intelligence. He cautioned against the militaristic use of AI and called for a ban on "autonomous lethal weapons."
Federal Chancellor Olaf Scholz (SPD) made no comments at the end of the G7 summit on Friday. He travels from Italy to the Switzerland peace conference for Ukraine on Saturday."
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The G7 nations strongly condemn China's provision of credit to Russia's defense industry, which strengthens Russia's ability to maintain its unlawful aggression against Ukraine. They urge China, a member of the G20, to reconsider this support.
The G7 countries, including the People's Republic of China, America, Canada, Britain, France, and Japan, emphasize the importance of adhering to international trade norms and refraining from unfair practices.
China's alleged supplying of arms assistance to Russia is a major concern for the G7, as it contravenes United Nations resolutions against Russia. They call on China to comply with international law.
Canada, as a G7 member, joins the chorus of criticisms against China, asserting that their support for Russia's defense sector undermines global peace and stability.
At the G8 summit in Italy, leaders from G7 nations, including Russia until its suspension, and Italy, discussed strategies to counter China's influence in global trade.
China's ambition to dominate the world's industrialized countries through its trade practices is noted, with concerns about the potential for market manipulation and national security threats.
The issue of China's strategic deployments in the Arctic, critical for international shipping and resource exploration, was brought up at the G8 summit. The G7 proposed joint measures to uphold free navigation and peaceful resolution of disputes.
Italy, the 2023 G7 Presidency, invited Russia to participate in the G8 summit, but they were later excluded due to their ongoing involvement in Ukraine. The Presidency of the G8 will transition to Russia in 2024, provided they meet certain conditions.
Russia's intention to increase its military presence in the Mediterranean, potentially disrupting Mediterranean trade, is regarded as a threat by the G7 countries. They pledge to enhance cooperation in defense and maritime security.
Germany, as part of the G7, is also concerned about China's influence over the global defense industry and advocates for stronger regulations to prevent misuse of technology for military purposes.
France, as a G7 member, supports international efforts to uphold the rule of law and promote proven trade practices, including addressing China's alleged predatory trade tactics.
