Germany is at the helm of the ‘G7’

The emblem of the German presidency stands out for its simplicity. Just two colors, blue and white. Just two elements, the G and the 7. Just before Christmas, government spokesman Stephen Hebstraight made the official presentation of the brand, noting that “this is a minimalist creation, after all, that was the meaning. The letter G and the number 7 stand out. “They form a strong symbol. We focus on the basics, this also applies to the targeted work program that the presidency will follow.”

The United States, Canada, Japan, France, the United Kingdom, Italy and Germany are members of the G7. These are the richest industrialized countries in the West, or at least that was the case in the 1970s, when informal group meetings began. At that time, a few years after the oil crisis, economic cooperation and the recovery of the international economy was an absolute priority. Today the G7 focuses mainly on the political agenda, for example on climate protection. “We may have the illusion that the West is an island of prosperity, but the water level is constantly rising, even on this island,” warns German Green Minister Analena Berbock. “That is why jointly tackling climate change will be one of our priorities in the G7 presidency.”

Her big challenge Of China

However, the issue of climate change cannot be resolved without the assistance of China. The same goes for other issues on the G7 agenda. But policy toward China seems to be divisive among Western leaders. In recent months, US President Joe Biden has suggested a tougher stance on Beijing. Europeans are on hold. The German Foreign Minister explains: “For the Europeans in the G7, China is a partner. There are issues of international scope that cannot be resolved without a common understanding. But in addition, China is a competitor, in some issues it is a strategic competitor. “It is cooperation, but liberal democracies determine their course on the basis of human rights and international treaties.”

The new axis of German policy towards Beijing was also outlined by the new Chancellor Olaf Solz in mid-December, during the program statements in the Federal Parliament. “The Chinese leadership is very confident in defending its interests. Germany and Europe have every reason to do the same,” Olaf Solz said. “China’s policy is determined by the real situation in China itself. It does not mean that we turn a blind eye to human rights threats or say things by name. “that a country the size and history of China now holds a prominent place in the international community.”

The US remains the “most important partner“

At the same time, the chancellor clarified that the United States remains Germany’s “most important” partner in the international competition of forces. This also applies to the policy towards Russia. The G7 has already made it clear that in the event of a new Russian attack on Ukraine there will be “significant consequences”, but they have not yet determined. “I would like to reiterate, in the event that it was not fully understood, what my predecessors have pointed out,” the new chancellor said, effectively reiterating the position of his predecessor. “Any violation of national sovereignty will pay a heavy price. We all speak with one voice on this issue, with our European partners and transatlantic allies.”

Meetings of the G7 group at ministerial level are scheduled in Germany by the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, Finance, Economy and Health. As for the summit, it will be held in the idyllic setting of the Bavarian Alps and specifically in the Elmau Palace, in the district of Garmisch Partenkirchen, in June. This is the second time that G7 leaders have visited the region since 2015. Mayor Thomas Schwarzenberger has expressed his particular satisfaction, speaking to Bavarian Radio (BR). “It’s a nice confirmation that the previous meeting was a success and left good impressions on the foreign leaders,” he said. “On the other hand, we know that a lot of work awaits us in the next six months. This applies to us, to the police, to the rescue teams, to everyone.” The Bavarian Interior Ministry estimates that spending on the summit will reach 166 million euros. 90% of the funds are allocated for security and mainly for the construction of a new fence and the operation of satellite communication systems.

Sabine Kincharts

Edited by: Giannis Papadimitriou

Source: Deutsche Welle