G7 Leaders Tackle Migration on Second Day of Summit in Italy Taormina, Italy – Leaders from the Group of Seven (G7) countries have turned their attention to the pressing issue of migration on the second day of their summit in Sicily. The leaders are seeking to find common ground on how to address the influx of refugees and migrants fleeing conflict and poverty in Africa and the Middle East. In a joint statement, the G7 leaders condemned the recent terrorist attacks in the United Kingdom and Egypt, and expressed their solidarity with the victims and families affected. They also vowed to enhance counter-terrorism cooperation and to strengthen border security to prevent future attacks. On migration, the G7 leaders recognized the need for a comprehensive approach that addresses both the root causes and the consequences of displacement. They committed to working together to: * Provide humanitarian assistance: Increase support to refugees and host communities, particularly in countries neighboring conflict zones. * Promote economic development: Invest in education, employment, and infrastructure in developing countries to create opportunities and reduce the need to migrate. * Address the root causes: tackle conflict, instability, and persecution that drive displacement. * Strengthen border management: Improve surveillance and screening measures to prevent illegal migration and human trafficking. * Resettlement and reunification: Facilitate the resettlement of refugees in safe countries and support family reunification efforts. The G7 leaders also discussed the possibility of establishing a common asylum system to ensure that refugees are treated fairly and humanely. However, no concrete plans were announced. Some humanitarian organizations have welcomed the G7’s commitment to address migration, but have cautioned that more action is needed. “While the G7 leaders have recognized the urgency of the migration crisis, their pledges must be translated into concrete actions that will make a real difference in the lives of refugees and migrants,” said Jan Egeland, Secretary General of the Norwegian Refugee Council. The G7 summit is expected to conclude on Saturday, with a final communique outlining the leaders’ agreements and commitments. The issue of migration is expected to remain a key focus of future international discussions, as the world faces the largest displacement crisis since World War II.Migration and Other Key Issues Dominate G7 SummitMigration and Other Key Issues Dominate G7 Summit Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) major industrialized countries focused their attention on migration at the start of the second day of their summit on Friday. They aim to combat human trafficking and increase investment in countries from which migrants undertake perilous journeys. The meeting, held at a luxury resort in the Apulia region of southern Italy, also addresses other important issues such as financial support for Ukraine, the conflict in Gaza, artificial intelligence, climate change, as well as China’s industrial policy and economic security. Divisions over Summit Declaration However, divisions emerged over the wording of the summit’s final declaration, particularly over the inclusion of a reference to abortion. Migration: A Priority for Italy Migration is a key concern for Italy, which is on a major route for people fleeing war and poverty in Africa, the Middle East, and Asia. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, known for her hardline stance on the issue, has emphasized increasing investment and financing for African nations to reduce migratory pressure on Europe. New Measures and Controversies Meloni has agreed to a five-year partnership with Albania to host asylum seekers while Italy processes their applications. She has also launched the “Mattei Plan” for Africa, aimed at boosting domestic economic opportunities to discourage migration. Despite these efforts, the United States has also faced an increase in migrants at its southern border. President Joe Biden introduced new policies but faces legal challenges from immigrant rights advocates. Addressing Migration as a Common Challenge European Council President Charles Michel emphasized the need to address migration as a common challenge. “We intend to implement this approach together with our partners: this coalition to fight against smugglers, these criminal groups that abuse (vulnerable people) to make money and destabilize regions and countries around the world,” he said. High-Level Guests and Support for Ukraine In addition to the G7 countries, the summit included the participation of African leaders, Pope Francis, and key international figures such as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. The summit commenced with a strong show of support for Ukraine, including an agreement on a $50 billion loan backed by frozen Russian assets. Russia’s Reaction to Asset Freeze Russian President Vladimir Putin denounced the asset freeze as “theft” and promised repercussions. Bilateral Agreement with Ukraine Biden signed a bilateral security agreement with Zelenskyy, sending a message of continued American support for Kyiv. Discord over Abortion Reference However, cracks appeared among G7 leaders over the omission of a reference to abortion in the draft outcome document. French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his disappointment, stating that France’s constitution protects women’s right to abortion and equality between men and women. The final communiqué includes a reference to promoting sexual and reproductive health rights but excludes the term “abortion.” Italy’s Stance on Abortion Meloni’s policies have sparked concerns among the opposition, who allege that she is undermining abortion rights. However, she has denied these accusations, stating that she supports Italy’s 1978 law legalizing abortion.G7+ Leaders Discuss Migration on Second Day of Summit At their ongoing summit in Italy, G7+ leaders convened a session to address the pressing issue of migration. The discussion focused on identifying common ground and coordinating efforts to manage migratory flows. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach, involving both measures to address the root causes of migration and cooperation on resettlement and integration. French President Emmanuel Macron called for increased solidarity and a “humanitarian approach” to the issue. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen outlined the EU’s plans to strengthen border protection, combat human trafficking, and promote legal pathways for migration. Prime Minister Mario Draghi of Italy, who is hosting the summit, underscored the importance of addressing migration from a global perspective. He stressed the need to engage with countries of origin and transit to tackle the underlying factors driving migration. Other leaders also expressed their concerns and shared their perspectives. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida called for greater focus on labor migration and the inclusion of migrants in the social fabric. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasized the need for policies that respect human rights and dignity. The leaders agreed to continue their discussions on migration and to establish a working group to explore practical solutions. They recognized the urgency of the issue and pledged to work together to find effective responses. The migration session concluded with a joint statement, outlining the leaders’ commitments to address the multifaceted challenges of migration. The statement emphasized the importance of shared responsibility, balanced approaches, and international cooperation.