Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida forges a more inclusive coalition to tackle pressing global issues while navigating ‘complex’ geopolitical dynamics
As the world grapples with a rapidly evolving international order, the 49th G7 Summit convened from 19 to 21 May 2023, in Hiroshima, brought forth a momentous shift in global dynamics.
Under the leadership of Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, this year, the G7 table has expanded to accommodate a broader set of voices, reflecting the need for a more global coalition to address the multifaceted challenges facing our planet.
From the conflict in Ukraine to the growing tensions in the South China Sea, this gathering of influential nations aimed at finding a common ground to forge a united front. However, navigating these complex issues will require delicate diplomacy and consideration of divergent interests.
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The G7, comprising the world’s wealthiest democracies — the United States, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the United Kingdom (UK) has traditionally focused on economic matters. Yet, as the global landscape evolves, so must the agenda of this influential grouping.
With the inclusion of Australia, India, Brazil, South Korea, Vietnam, Indonesia, Comoros (representing the African Union), and the Cook Islands (representing the Pacific Islands Forum), Prime Minister Kishida seeks to expand the table and foster a more inclusive dialogue.
Further, recognizing the influence of emerging economies and the interconnectedness of global challenges, this expanded 2023 summit aims to address pressing issues that extend far beyond the traditional G7 framework.
One of the paramount concerns on the agenda is Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The G7 is striving to impose additional sanctions targeting Moscow’s support for the conflict.
However, the expanded guest list introduces complexities, as countries like India, which has refused to comply with Western sanctions on Russian imports, have economic ties and reservations that may hinder a united front.
Balancing the imperative of holding Russia accountable with the concerns of these new attendees presents a formidable challenge for Prime Minister Kishida.
The summit also acknowledged the rise of China as a global power and the tensions arising from its assertive military presence in the South China Sea and its economic influence.
As the sole Asian G7 member, Japan is keen to address the threat posed by China’s growing military ambitions around Taiwan. Prime Minister Kishida emphasized the need for reciprocity, urging the West to recognize that the challenges in Ukraine are equally pertinent to the Asia-Pacific region.
However, countering China’s economic coercion and military posturing requires careful coordination and a cohesive approach, which may prove difficult to achieve given the diverse economic dependencies and interests of the participating nations.
Climate change and energy security are also at top on the G7 agenda. By addressing these issues, countries aim to reduce reliance on Russian oil and gas while mitigating the environmental impact of energy consumption.
The inclusion of Pacific Island nations, such as the Cook Islands, reflects their vulnerability to climate change and their strategic significance in the ongoing struggle for influence between major powers.
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Prime Minister Kishida’s coalition-building efforts seek to address the concerns of these nations while finding solutions to climate-related challenges that have global implications.
However, the differing levels of economic dependence on China among the expanded attendees, particularly from the Global South, raise concerns about the feasibility of coordinated action against Beijing.
Economic coercion, exemplified by China’s actions against countries critical of its policies, further complicates the path to consensus.
Prime Minister Kishida must strike a delicate equilibrium that respects Japan’s aspirations while also considering the varied priorities and dependencies of the broader group.
The G7 Summit being held in Hiroshima, this year, is a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of nuclear weapons, as the world will watch the leaders deliberating over critical global issues, and seeking a common ground while recognizing the evolving dynamics of the global order.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida’s efforts to broaden the table and incorporate voices from the Global South reflect the changing realities of the international landscape. However, finding common ground and fostering consensus among an expanded group with diverse interests and economic dependencies will require skillful diplomacy and astute leadership. International relations expert Kyoko Hatakeyama thinks Japan can maximize its diplomatic influence during the G7 presidency. “If the G7 summit is successful, it will boost Japan’s diplomatic status,” said Hatakeyama.