The G7, or Group of Seven, is an informal forum comprising seven of the world’s most advanced economies..
its members are Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The European Union also participates in G7 meetings, though it does not hold membership or the rotating presidency . Established in 1975 in response to the oil crisis, the G7 initially formed as the Group of Six, with Canada joining in 1976. Russia was a member from 1998 until its suspension in 2014, when the group reverted to the G7 format .
The G7’s mandate involves annual summits where leaders discuss global economic and geopolitical issues. The topics vary each year depending on world events, covering areas such as international peace and security, economic growth, climate change, artificial intelligence, and trade policies. Decisions are typically made by consensus, and the host country’s presidency determines the agenda and thematic priorities .
The G7 is significant due to the collective economic influence of its members, who represent a substantial portion of global GDP and trade. Decisions made at G7 summits can impact global trade, financial stability, and climate policy. It serves as a forum for coordinating responses to global challenges like economic downturns, pandemics, and geopolitical tensions, and it promotes multilateral cooperation among major powers .
India’s Role in the G7
India is not a formal member of the G7, but its role has evolved significantly in recent years . Recognized as a powerful and influential global player, India has been consistently invited to G7 Summits as an outreach partner since 2003, and every year since 2019 . This frequent inclusion highlights India’s growing economic and geopolitical importance as the world’s fifth-largest economy and a key voice for the Global South .
India’s participation at these summits is crucial for several reasons:
- India advocates for the causes of the Global South, including development financing and debt relief . At the 2025 G7 Summit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged in productive exchanges with G7 leaders on global challenges . India has also urged global action against terrorism .
- India has emerged as a significant strategic partner for Western G7 countries, particularly concerning the Indo-Pacific region .
- India’s economy is larger than the combined economies of several G7 nations (excluding the US and Germany), highlighting its growing economic clout .
- India has emphasized energy security, advocating for affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy access .
- India’s participation at G7 summits also provides opportunities for bilateral meetings with leaders from various countries, fostering diplomatic relations .
Prime Minister Modi has participated in the G7 Summit six consecutive times, including the 50th G7 Summit in June 2024 and the 51st G7 Outreach Summit in Kananaskis, Canada, in 2025 . India’s continued presence underscores its importance in discussions concerning global issues, even as a non-member .for world news click www.eminentnews.com
