Italy plans to invite leaders from several African countries as well as Argentina, Brazil and India to the G7 summit it will host in mid-June, a source close to the matter said.
The G7 comprises the United States, Great Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the European Union. The leaders' summit will take place in Borgo Egnazia, a resort in the southeast region of Puglia, from June 13 to 15.
The source, who declined to be named due to the sensitivity of the issue, said the heads of Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria and Kenya would receive invitations, along with representatives of the African Union.
South Africa, Brazil and India are expected to participate as members of the broader G20 forum, the source said, adding that invitations to other countries could follow.
Italy holds the rotating presidency of the G7 for 2024 and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said that Africa's development will be a central item in discussions, in addition to facing the dangers posed by Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Meloni has made Africa a central plank of his foreign policy since taking office in late 2022, launching a project with several African states in January aimed at boosting economic ties, creating an energy hub for Europe and reducing immigration.
The war in Ukraine is also likely to be a central focus of G7 talks, with President Volodymyr Zelensky widely expected to attend the leaders' summit as he did last year when it took place in Japan.
Source: CNN Brasil

Bruce Belcher is a seasoned author with over 5 years of experience in world news. He writes for online news websites and provides in-depth analysis on the world stock market. Bruce is known for his insightful perspectives and commitment to keeping the public informed.