G7
G7 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Karuizawa, Nagano
(Overview of the “Africa” Session)
April 18, 2023
On April 18, commencing at 9:25 a.m., Mr. HAYASHI Yoshimasa, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, hosted the “Africa” session, for approximately 75 minutes. The overview of the session is as follows. (Attended by the G7 Foreign Ministers and the Deputy Secretary-General for Political Affairs, European External Action Service (EEAS) (Attending on behalf of the High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy).)
- In the session, the G7 discussed the importance of Africa in the current international situation, and shared the view that it is necessary to address the spread of disinformation, opaque and unfair development finance, among other issues. In addition, the G7 discussed the deterioration of the situation in Sudan and the regional situation, including the Sahel, the Horn of Africa, and the Great Lakes region, and they shared the view that it is important for G7 to work together to support Africa’s own efforts toward peace and stability in Africa.
- Minister Hayashi stated that the G7 must strengthen its engagement with Africa and establish themselves as reliable partners, rather than asking African countries to choose their sides. In addition, Minister Hayashi introduced TICAD as an example of Japan’s efforts, and stated that Japan will continue to provide support to Africa, taking into account issues such as rising food and energy prices.
- Furthermore, Minister Hayashi welcomed the G7 members’ strengthened engagement with Africa, and explained that Prime Minister Kishida is expected to visit Africa shortly. Minister Hayashi also stated that Japan would like to continue to work together to strengthen relationship between the G7 and Africa.