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Defense OneJun 24
G7 Closes With Talks on China, Meeting with Pope on AI
Above: JUNE 14: British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak welcomes Pope Francis ahead of a working session on Artificial Intelligence Image copyright: Christopher Furlong/Staff/Getty Images News via Getty Images
The Facts
China was the main focus on the final day of the Group of Seven (G7) summit in Italy on Friday, with the day also featuring a historic appearance by Pope Francis, who attended to discuss artificial intelligence (AI).
According to a draft statement, the group of industrial nations voiced qualms over China's alleged unfair business practices. It also states that they want "free and fair trade" while not trying to "harm" China or "thwart its economic development."
The Spin
Anti-China narrative
While the G7 is focused on promoting fair trade practices in all corners of the globe, China has emerged as a major economic threat when it comes to EVs. Beijing is also at the heart of the debt crisis currently faced by many countries, to which it has slow-walked its contributions to debt restructuring. China should foster a welcoming economic environment instead of trying to cheat its way to the top.
Pro-China narrative
China isn't violating trade laws but rather utilizing its large-scale manufacturing base to produce mass amounts of quality EVs. Since the G7 has decided to complain rather than compete, Beijing may now be forced to place tariffs on their cars sold in China, which is in line with international law and will hurt them dearly. Western leaders have exposed their weakness on the global stage, and it will only become more apparent as this trade war continues.