
Power Players in Alberta: Who’s Coming to the G7 Summit?
2025-06-14
Author: Charlotte
Get Ready for the G7 Summit in Kananaskis, Alberta!
Alberta is set to become the epicenter of global discussions as Canada prepares to host the Group of Seven (G7) summit this Sunday. Amidst pressing global challenges, over a dozen world leaders will gather to discuss key issues that are likely to shape international relations.
Meet the G7 Member-State Leaders
The G7 comprises the world’s advanced economies, and this summit will see several fresh faces, with five leaders new to their positions since last year.
**U.S. President Donald Trump**: Marking his first Canadian visit since his return to the White House, Trump’s participation comes at a pivotal time amid ongoing negotiations over trade and security with Canada.
**British Prime Minister Keir Starmer**: Starmer will make his debut at the G7, meeting with Prime Minister Mark Carney for bilateral talks before the summit.
**French President Emmanuel Macron**: As the longest-serving G7 leader since 2017, Macron is a veteran at these summits, having attended all but one.
**German Chancellor Friedrich Merz**: This summit will be Merz’s first representation of Germany, tackling diplomatic efforts related to Ukraine alongside other issues.
**Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni**: Meloni returns to the G7 after hosting last year’s meeting, enthusiastic about ongoing discussions.
**Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba**: Newly elected Ishiba expresses aspirations for constructive dialogue at the summit, emphasizing international cooperation.
**Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney**: Though the newest leader at the G7, Carney has significant experience with these discussions, aiming for coordinated action on economic partnerships and community protection.
**Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission**: Representing the EU, von der Leyen will engage on vital issues affecting Europe and beyond.
Special Invites to the Table
Canada's invitations extend beyond the G7 members, showcasing its commitment to global collaboration.
**Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi**: Amid controversy surrounding India's role in Canadian politics, Carney insists on the necessity of India’s economic presence at the summit.
**Claudia Sheinbaum, President of Mexico**: Sheinbaum aims to pursue bilateral relations with the G7 leaders amidst impending trade renegotiations.
**Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky**: Zelensky's presence promises critical dialogue with leaders like Trump, amidst efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
**NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte**: Rutte's participation comes at a time when NATO nations are pressured to boost defense spending.
**World Bank President Ajay Banga**: Banga returns amid a turbulent global economic landscape, advocating for stability.
**South African President Cyril Ramaphosa**: Developing countries are represented as Ramaphosa joins with an agenda focused on cooperation.
**Brazilian President Lula da Silva**: Lula pushes for environmental and democratic themes relevant to the Global South.
**UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan**: A crucial ally, the UAE aims to strengthen humanitarian partnerships.
**South Korean President Lee Jae-myung**: Lee underscores South Korea's position as a stable democracy, fostering deeper engagements.
**Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese**: Australia is poised to deepen ties with Canada, particularly in trade and defense.
**Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto**: Subianto’s attendance reflects Canada's desire for closer ties within the Indo-Pacific region.
**Alberta Premier Danielle Smith**: As the host, Smith will lead welcoming ceremonies and facilitate discussions throughout the summit.
Who Won't Be Joining Us?
Interestingly, not everyone will be present at this year’s summit. **Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman** declined to attend, which may ease political tensions within Canada.
Meanwhile, **China** has been excluded from the invite list, with rising trade tensions complicating relations. Carney is under pressure to address human rights concerns as pro-democracy groups urge him to advocate for jailed publisher Jimmy Lai.
As Alberta prepares to host leaders from across the globe, discussions at the G7 summit promise to be anything but ordinary.