The Thursday session is a followup to their March 16 video conference to go over international efforts to defeat the coronavirus.

G7 nations report more than 91,000 deaths

US President Donald Trump will convene the G7 meeting via video conference later today. This comes after Trump decided to the impersonal meeting of G7 leaders, stated to be held at Camp David. Watch the video to know what all you can expect from the G7 meet.

G7 meet on March 16: What all to expect from the meet

The Group of Seven advanced nations favours a temporary halt to debt payments from the world's poorest countries, but only if G20 governments also agree, AFP report said quoting G7 finance ministers said Tuesday.

The Group of Seven advanced nations favours a temporary halt to debt payments from the world's poorest countries, but only if G20 governments also agree, AFP report said quoting G7 finance ministers said Tuesday. Noting that these countries face the most hardship in trying to deal with the coronavirus pandemic, the G7 members "stand ready to provide a time-bound suspension on debt service payments" owed to their governments "if joined by all bilateral official creditors in the G20 and as agreed with the Paris Club." The G20 includes major emerging market economies like China and Russia.

G7 favours temporary halt to debt payments for poorest countries if G20 agrees

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Wednesday that the Group of Seven powers were united in opposing China's coronavirus "disinformation," but European allies emphasized cooperation to fight the global pandemic.

Foreign ministers from the major industrialized democracies spoke about the crisis by videoconference, scrapping a meeting scheduled in Pittsburgh, but any hope of showing a common front was eroded by the absence of a joint statement.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-leaders-to-hold-crisis-talks-as-virus-toll-tops-21000-288591" hreflang="en">World leaders to hold crisis talks as virus toll tops 21,000</a>

Pompeo, a sharp critic of Beijing who has gone&nbsp;on the offensive over what he calls the "Wuhan virus," said he shared a common view with the top diplomats of the other G7 countries -- Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan.

"Every one of the nations that were at that meeting this morning was deeply aware of the disinformation campaign that the Chinese Communist Party is engaged in to try and deflect from what has really taken place," Pompeo told reporters.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-death-toll-tops-21000-globally-288590" hreflang="en">Coronavirus death toll tops 21,000 globally</a>

Pompeo said that China "has been and continues to be engaged in" a campaign through&nbsp;social media that has included conspiracy theories of US involvement.

"This is crazy talk," he said.

A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman infuriated President Donald Trump's administration by suggesting on Twitter that US troops brought the virus to Wuhan, the metropolis where it was first detected late last year.&nbsp;

Scientists widely believe the COVID-19 virus came from a Wuhan meat market that butchered exotic animals.

The virus has killed more than 21,000 people globally, but Beijing has appeared to bring it under control and has sent aid overseas -- including 40 tons of medical supplies to US ally Italy, which has the world's highest death toll.

Pompeo minimized China's efforts and pointed to a US Air Force cargo plane's aid delivery to Italy as well as private US charity efforts.

China is "now making small sales of product around the world and claiming that they are now the white hat in what has taken place," Pompeo said.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Wednesday that the Group of Seven powers were united in opposing China's coronavirus "disinformation," but European allies emphasized cooperation to fight the global pandemic.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Wednesday that the Group of Seven powers were united in opposing China's coronavirus "disinformation," but European allies emphasized cooperation to fight the global pandemic. Foreign ministers from the major industrialized democracies spoke about the crisis by videoconference, scrapping a meeting scheduled in Pittsburgh, but any hope of showing a common front was eroded by the absence of a joint statement. Also read: World leaders to hold crisis talks as virus toll tops 21,000 Pompeo, a sharp critic of Beijing who has gone on the offensive over what he calls the "Wuhan virus," said he shared a common view with the top diplomats of the other G7 countries -- Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan. "Every one of the nations that were at that meeting this morning was deeply aware of the disinformation campaign that the Chinese Communist Party is engaged in to try and deflect from what has really taken place," Pompeo told reporters. Also read: Coronavirus death toll tops 21,000 globally Pompeo said that China "has been and continues to be engaged in" a campaign through social media that has included conspiracy theories of US involvement. "This is crazy talk," he said. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman infuriated President Donald Trump's administration by suggesting on Twitter that US troops brought the virus to Wuhan, the metropolis where it was first detected late last year. Scientists widely believe the COVID-19 virus came from a Wuhan meat market that butchered exotic animals. The virus has killed more than 21,000 people globally, but Beijing has appeared to bring it under control and has sent aid overseas -- including 40 tons of medical supplies to US ally Italy, which has the world's highest death toll. Pompeo minimized China's efforts and pointed to a US Air Force cargo plane's aid delivery to Italy as well as private US charity efforts. China is "now making small sales of product around the world and claiming that they are now the white hat in what has taken place," Pompeo said.

Pompeo attacks Chinese virus campaign at G7 as Europeans seek cooperation

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Group of Seven foreign ministers agreed with him in talks Wednesday that China was waging a "disinformation" campaign about the coronavirus pandemic.

The top diplomats from the major industrialized nations held a previously scheduled meeting by videoconference, with the United States scrapping a meeting in Pittsburgh as the contagion fears restrict international travel.

Also read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/not-acceptable-china-urges-india-to-not-call-coronavirus-the-chinese-virus-288523"> 'Not acceptable' - China urges India to not call coronavirus the 'Chinese virus'</a>

Pompeo, who has heavily criticized Beijing over what he calls the "Wuhan virus," said he was united with other ministers -- from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan.

"Every one of the nations that were at that meeting this morning was deeply aware of the disinformation campaign that the Chinese Communist Party is engaged in to try and deflect from what has really taken place," Pompeo told reporters after the talks.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/one-third-of-humanity-under-coronavirus-lockdown-288458">One third of humanity under coronavirus lockdown</a>

Pompeo said that China "has been and continues to be engaged in" a campaign on social media that has included conspiracy theories that the United States was behind the virus, which was first detected in the Chinese metropolis of Wuhan.

"This is crazy talk," Pompeo said.

The G7 talks came a day before a virtual summit of leaders of the Group of 20 major economies, which include the United States and China.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-overtakes-china-virus-toll-with-3434-deaths-government-288448">Spain overtakes China virus toll with 3,434 deaths -&nbsp;Government</a>

Beijing has appeared to bring the virus under control and has stepped up aid by delivering masks and other supplies around the world -- including to US allies such as Italy, which has the world's highest death toll.

Pompeo minimized China's efforts and said the United States was "finalizing plans" to deploy excess military equipment to Italy.

China is "now making small sales of product around the world and claiming that they are now the white hat in what has taken place," Pompeo said.

But he said the United States sought cooperation.

"We desperately want to work with every country around the world. This is a global pandemic," he said.

"The United States wants to work with every country including China to figure out how to resolve to keep as many people alive -- as many people as healthy -- and then to restore our economies that have been decimated by the Wuhan virus."

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Group of Seven foreign ministers agreed with him in talks Wednesday that China was waging a "disinformation" campaign about the coronavirus pandemic.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said Group of Seven foreign ministers agreed with him in talks Wednesday that China was waging a "disinformation" campaign about the coronavirus pandemic. The top diplomats from the major industrialized nations held a previously scheduled meeting by videoconference, with the United States scrapping a meeting in Pittsburgh as the contagion fears restrict international travel. Also read: 'Not acceptable' - China urges India to not call coronavirus the 'Chinese virus' Pompeo, who has heavily criticized Beijing over what he calls the "Wuhan virus," said he was united with other ministers -- from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy and Japan. "Every one of the nations that were at that meeting this morning was deeply aware of the disinformation campaign that the Chinese Communist Party is engaged in to try and deflect from what has really taken place," Pompeo told reporters after the talks. Also read: One third of humanity under coronavirus lockdown Pompeo said that China "has been and continues to be engaged in" a campaign on social media that has included conspiracy theories that the United States was behind the virus, which was first detected in the Chinese metropolis of Wuhan. "This is crazy talk," Pompeo said. The G7 talks came a day before a virtual summit of leaders of the Group of 20 major economies, which include the United States and China. Also read: Spain overtakes China virus toll with 3,434 deaths - Government Beijing has appeared to bring the virus under control and has stepped up aid by delivering masks and other supplies around the world -- including to US allies such as Italy, which has the world's highest death toll. Pompeo minimized China's efforts and said the United States was "finalizing plans" to deploy excess military equipment to Italy. China is "now making small sales of product around the world and claiming that they are now the white hat in what has taken place," Pompeo said. But he said the United States sought cooperation. "We desperately want to work with every country around the world. This is a global pandemic," he said. "The United States wants to work with every country including China to figure out how to resolve to keep as many people alive -- as many people as healthy -- and then to restore our economies that have been decimated by the Wuhan virus."

G7 agrees China spreading coronavirus 'disinformation', says US State Secretary Mike Pompeo

Even as G20 is set to meet via video conference for a global coordinated after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposal, France has welcomed the development saying they expect India to be very dynamic.&nbsp;

 
French envoy Emmanuel Lenain speaking exclusively to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal said, "We expect India to be very dynamic in raising the issue within G20."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mind-your-own-business-china-to-trump-after-he-calls-covid-19-chinese-virus-287042">Mind your own business: China to Trump after he calls COVID-19 'Chinese virus'</a>

WION: How do you see the current situation do to Corona Virus? 
 
Emmanuel Lenain: The situation is truly exceptional. We have to win. My govt has taken truly exceptional temporary measures that will be applied to the next 15 days, 30 days minimum. All our people have to show discipline and solidarity. This virus is not only harmful to a certain part of the population, but all the young people can also get the disease, it can be transmitted even if u don't show symptoms. We must be strict on that.

WION: Indian PM Modi has proposed G20 Meet. It has been accepted by Saudi Arabia..how do u see the development? 
 
Emmanuel Lenain: Virus has no border. We can only this war if we are collective players. If we join efforts under the auspices of WHO, under national coordinated measures, that is why all discussions under international bodies are important. India has a key player at the global stage, also global health issues have a role. U mentioned G20, we expect a lot from India, India is going to be the chair of G20 in 2022. In the run-up to this big year, we expect India to be very dynamic in raising the issue within G20.

WION: How do u see the economic impact? 
 
Emmanuel Lenain: Economic impact has to be assessed but we know for sure it going to be huge. All our governments are taking measures and announcing packages for the activity but in the end, we need big coordination between our countries. I know that we are discussing with India on certain measures, we discussing within international bodies, within G7, G20, India is talking within regional bodies like SAARC. It has to be continued, we need to accelerate, we need to put on board the IMF, world bank. It is a collective effort.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-in-india-live-updates-coronavirus-cases-in-india-live-news-latest-updates-one-intel-employee-potentially-exposed-to-coronavirus-under-quarantine-284099">Coronavirus LIVE: 276 Indians, including 255 in Iran, infected with Covid-19 abroad, says MEA</a>

Even as G20 is set to meet via video conference for a global coordinated after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposal, France has welcomed the development saying they expect India to be very dynamic.

Even as G20 is set to meet via video conference for a global coordinated after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's proposal, France has welcomed the development saying they expect India to be very dynamic. French envoy Emmanuel Lenain speaking exclusively to WION's diplomatic correspondent Sidhant Sibal said, "We expect India to be very dynamic in raising the issue within G20." Also read: Mind your own business: China to Trump after he calls COVID-19 'Chinese virus' WION: How do you see the current situation do to Corona Virus? Emmanuel Lenain: The situation is truly exceptional. We have to win. My govt has taken truly exceptional temporary measures that will be applied to the next 15 days, 30 days minimum. All our people have to show discipline and solidarity. This virus is not only harmful to a certain part of the population, but all the young people can also get the disease, it can be transmitted even if u don't show symptoms. We must be strict on that. WION: Indian PM Modi has proposed G20 Meet. It has been accepted by Saudi Arabia..how do u see the development? Emmanuel Lenain: Virus has no border. We can only this war if we are collective players. If we join efforts under the auspices of WHO, under national coordinated measures, that is why all discussions under international bodies are important. India has a key player at the global stage, also global health issues have a role. U mentioned G20, we expect a lot from India, India is going to be the chair of G20 in 2022. In the run-up to this big year, we expect India to be very dynamic in raising the issue within G20. WION: How do u see the economic impact? Emmanuel Lenain: Economic impact has to be assessed but we know for sure it going to be huge. All our governments are taking measures and announcing packages for the activity but in the end, we need big coordination between our countries. I know that we are discussing with India on certain measures, we discussing within international bodies, within G7, G20, India is talking within regional bodies like SAARC. It has to be continued, we need to accelerate, we need to put on board the IMF, world bank. It is a collective effort. Coronavirus LIVE: 276 Indians, including 255 in Iran, infected with Covid-19 abroad, says MEA

G20 coronavirus meet: France welcomes India's active role in G20, lauds SAARC video conference 

Following the SAARC template which came to fruition yesterday, G7 countries conducted a video conference today to address the COVID-19 outbreak. During the conference, the Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) expressed the conviction that ''current challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic need a strongly coordinated international approach, based on science and evidence, consistent with our democratic values, and utilising the strengths of private enterprise''.

G7 follows SAARC's suit, conducts a video conference to chalk out COVID-19 plan

Following the SAARC template which came to fruition yesterday, G7 countries conducted a video conference today to address the COVID-19 outbreak.

During the conference, the Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) expressed the conviction that ''current challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic need a strongly coordinated international approach, based on science and evidence, consistent with our democratic values, and utilising the strengths of private enterprise''.

The leaders of seven countries reassured that they would coordinate on necessary public health measures in order to protect people from the outbreak, protect jobs, support global trade, and encourage science.

Additionally, the focus was on ensuring the flow of real-time information so that all member states could have access to the latest intelligence, which could facilitate the prevention and mitigation of the pandemic.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/south-asia/poverty-population-and-weak-healthcare-coronavirus-cases-on-the-rise-in-south-asia-286818" hreflang="en">Poverty, population and weak healthcare: Coronavirus cases on the rise in South Asia</a>

With plans among health ministers of the countries to discuss imperatives every week, the G7 said that they were all committed to supporting the global alliance Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness and Innovation.

Additionally, the member-states will undertake joint research projects (both public and private) to work towards the creation of a vaccine.

The rest of the world has acknowledged India's initiative and governments across the world are working in tandem with India to control the outbreak.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-pandemic-saarc-nations-come-together-to-fight-virus-286594/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

In recent weeks, the Government of India has briefed foreign ambassadors, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaking to two heads of state - British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Recently, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has held discussions with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

Last month, India had sent 15 tonnes of medical relief to China. Additionally, New Delhi has received requests from Italy, Iran, and neighbouring South Asian countries for assistance, with major demand for medical supplies.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://wionews.com/world/human-trial-of-coronavirus-vaccine-to-begin-says-official-286819" hreflang="en">Human trial of coronavirus vaccine to begin, says official</a>

Despite dealing with the coronavirus outbreak at home, India remains actively engaged with the world community.

Even countries like Iran, which have taken a hostile stand on issues like Kashmir, have asked for help from India. In times of crisis, India has put differences on the backburner.

The Group of Seven is an international intergovernmental economic organisation consisting of the seven IMF-advanced economies in the world: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. 
&nbsp;

Following the SAARC template which came to fruition yesterday, G7 countries conducted a video conference today to address the COVID-19 outbreak. During the conference, the Leaders of the Group of Seven (G7) expressed the conviction that ''current challenges related to the COVID-19 pandemic need a strongly coordinated international approach, based on science and evidence, consistent with our democratic values, and utilising the strengths of private enterprise''. The leaders of seven countries reassured that they would coordinate on necessary public health measures in order to protect people from the outbreak, protect jobs, support global trade, and encourage science. Additionally, the focus was on ensuring the flow of real-time information so that all member states could have access to the latest intelligence, which could facilitate the prevention and mitigation of the pandemic. Also read: Poverty, population and weak healthcare: Coronavirus cases on the rise in South Asia With plans among health ministers of the countries to discuss imperatives every week, the G7 said that they were all committed to supporting the global alliance Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness and Innovation. Additionally, the member-states will undertake joint research projects (both public and private) to work towards the creation of a vaccine. The rest of the world has acknowledged India's initiative and governments across the world are working in tandem with India to control the outbreak. In recent weeks, the Government of India has briefed foreign ambassadors, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaking to two heads of state - British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Recently, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar has held discussions with US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. Last month, India had sent 15 tonnes of medical relief to China. Additionally, New Delhi has received requests from Italy, Iran, and neighbouring South Asian countries for assistance, with major demand for medical supplies. Also read: Human trial of coronavirus vaccine to begin, says official Despite dealing with the coronavirus outbreak at home, India remains actively engaged with the world community. Even countries like Iran, which have taken a hostile stand on issues like Kashmir, have asked for help from India. In times of crisis, India has put differences on the backburner. The Group of Seven is an international intergovernmental economic organisation consisting of the seven IMF-advanced economies in the world: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

G7 follows SAARC's suit; conducts a video conference to chalk out COVID-19 plan

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte warned Monday that his country was entering "the riskiest weeks" and urged a coordinated European response to the coronavirus pandemic.

"European coordination on health and economic measures is needed," Conte told the Corriere Della Sera newspaper ahead of a planned videoconference Monday between Group of Seven (G7) leaders.

"It is time for courageous choices and Italy can offer a significant contribution as the country that was the first in Europe to have experienced such a widespread of the virus," he said.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-unveils-28-billion-coronavirus-rescue-plan-285707">Italy unveils $28 billion coronavirus rescue plan</a>

Italy was the first EU member state to shutter schools and almost all businesses to try to slow a global pandemic that has killed 1,809 people in the Mediterranean country since last month.

It has recorded more than half the deaths officially reported outside China.

Conte said "no new prohibitions are needed" but urged everyone to stay home as much as possible and only venture outside alone.

"Scientists tell us that we have not yet reached a peak. These are the riskiest weeks and we need the utmost precaution," said Conte.

Italy is facing two simultaneous threats to its healthcare system.

Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italy-witnesses-highest-one-day-toll-with-368-new-deaths-286561">Italy witnesses highest one-day toll with 368 new deaths</a>

World-class hospitals in the richer north where the overwhelming majority of the deaths and infections have been reported are running out of beds and relying on overstretched staff.

But Conte fears that medical centres in the poorer south which have largely avoided contagion will be unable to cope should it be hit just as hard.

"We can no longer afford behavioural errors," said Conte.

"Things like people leaving Milan on weekends to spend time with their family or at their residences in the south must absolutely stop."

The virus "is our most important challenge of the past decades," Conte said.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte warned Monday that his country was entering "the riskiest weeks" and urged a coordinated European response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte warned Monday that his country was entering "the riskiest weeks" and urged a coordinated European response to the coronavirus pandemic. "European coordination on health and economic measures is needed," Conte told the Corriere Della Sera newspaper ahead of a planned videoconference Monday between Group of Seven (G7) leaders. "It is time for courageous choices and Italy can offer a significant contribution as the country that was the first in Europe to have experienced such a widespread of the virus," he said. Also Read: Italy unveils $28 billion coronavirus rescue plan Italy was the first EU member state to shutter schools and almost all businesses to try to slow a global pandemic that has killed 1,809 people in the Mediterranean country since last month. It has recorded more than half the deaths officially reported outside China. Conte said "no new prohibitions are needed" but urged everyone to stay home as much as possible and only venture outside alone. "Scientists tell us that we have not yet reached a peak. These are the riskiest weeks and we need the utmost precaution," said Conte. Italy is facing two simultaneous threats to its healthcare system. Also Read: Italy witnesses highest one-day toll with 368 new deaths World-class hospitals in the richer north where the overwhelming majority of the deaths and infections have been reported are running out of beds and relying on overstretched staff. But Conte fears that medical centres in the poorer south which have largely avoided contagion will be unable to cope should it be hit just as hard. "We can no longer afford behavioural errors," said Conte. "Things like people leaving Milan on weekends to spend time with their family or at their residences in the south must absolutely stop." The virus "is our most important challenge of the past decades," Conte said.

Italy calls for European unity, suggests 'riskiest weeks' ahead

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/former-international-monetary-fund-chief-lagarde-takes-swipe-at-trumps-twitter-habits-256970">US President Donald Trump</a> said on Saturday the next <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swift-backlash-as-donald-trump-picks-own-golf-resort-to-host-g7-256587">G7 summit</a> will not be at one of his own Florida golf clubs, reversing a decision that had sparked corruption accusations.

"Based on both Media &amp; Democrat Crazed and Irrational Hostility, we will no longer consider <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hopes-us-china-trade-deal-will-be-signed-by-middle-of-november-256808">Trump</a> National Doral, Miami, as the Host Site for the G-7 in 2020," the president tweeted.

"We will begin the search for another site, including the possibility of Camp David, immediately."

Acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney had on Thursday announced that the south Florida venue was "the best place" among a dozen US locations considered for the June 10-12 gathering next year.

Critics said the move would violate both the foreign and domestic emoluments clauses that are designed to shield a US leader from outside influence.

On Friday, new legislation to block the plan was introduced by Democrats in Congress, who have already opened an impeachment investigation into allegations that the president pressured Ukraine into interfering on his behalf in the 2020 US election.

The bill, called "Trump's Heist Undermines the G-7 (THUG) Act," would have cut off all federal funding for the move, and require the White House to turn over all relevant documents that show how administration officials decided on Doral.

Trump National Doral is vital to his organization's finances and was once one of his biggest money-makers -- but it has been in steep decline, according to the Washington Post.

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday the next G7 summit will not be at one of his own Florida golf clubs, reversing a decision that had sparked corruption accusations.

US President Donald Trump said on Saturday the next G7 summit will not be at one of his own Florida golf clubs, reversing a decision that had sparked corruption accusations. "Based on both Media & Democrat Crazed and Irrational Hostility, we will no longer consider Trump National Doral, Miami, as the Host Site for the G-7 in 2020," the president tweeted. "We will begin the search for another site, including the possibility of Camp David, immediately." Acting White House Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney had on Thursday announced that the south Florida venue was "the best place" among a dozen US locations considered for the June 10-12 gathering next year. Critics said the move would violate both the foreign and domestic emoluments clauses that are designed to shield a US leader from outside influence. On Friday, new legislation to block the plan was introduced by Democrats in Congress, who have already opened an impeachment investigation into allegations that the president pressured Ukraine into interfering on his behalf in the 2020 US election. The bill, called "Trump's Heist Undermines the G-7 (THUG) Act," would have cut off all federal funding for the move, and require the White House to turn over all relevant documents that show how administration officials decided on Doral. Trump National Doral is vital to his organization's finances and was once one of his biggest money-makers -- but it has been in steep decline, according to the Washington Post.

Trump says next G7 summit won't be at his Miami golf resort

Facebook should not launch its global digital currency Libra until proper regulations are in place to handle the potential risks, the Group of Seven said Thursday.

And France's Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire warned that a currency like Libra could undermine sovereign nations' control over their exchange rates.

"It's a matter of democracy, not just a simple economic question," Le Maire told reporters, saying Facebook's currency could have an "immediate global reach" through the social network's huge membership.

Le Maire presented the Group of Seven nation's statement on Libra, saying "no global stablecoin project should begin operation until the legal, regulatory and oversight challenges and risks are adequately addressed," including the potential for money laundering and terror financing.

But, he told reporters, "The key question is the question of sovereignty."&nbsp;

"Do we want a private company to have... the same power, and the same sovereignty, as democratic states" over currencies.

Libra, which would be backed by reserve assets unlike cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, has faced a steady drumbeat of stern warnings from central bankers and financial regulators.

European Central Bank board member Benoit Coeure presented a report on digital currencies to the G7 finance ministers, who are gathering on the margins of the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank.

The report said a framework for oversight of Libra "is an absolute prerequisite," and urged regulators to coordinate their work to prevent issuers from seeking out the most favorable country from which to operate.

Libra members drop out

If it enters circulation, Libra would offer an alternative to traditional bank financial transfers, a disruptive change that has aroused resistance and scepticism.

Facebook's digital currency chief David Marcus told reporters in Washington that the issues raised by Le Maire are "legitimate concerns."

"We're determined to answer these concerns with real solutions that will meet or exceed the standards of the current system," he told a small group of reporters at an event in Washington.

Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook's co-founder and chief executive, was in Washington as well Thursday and is due to testify before the US Congress next week on the social media network's impact on financial services.

The Libra Association, which will oversee Facebook's proposed currency and officially launched Monday in Geneva, also said in a statement that Libra "is being designed to respect national sovereignty over monetary policy in the digital space, not undermine it."

But central bankers remain concerned about the prospects.

Lael Brainard, an influential member of the US Federal Reserve Board, said Facebook's proposed currency presented a host of risks and regulatory challenges for preventing money-laundering and assuring financial stability and could be a challenge to the traditional role played by banks.

"There are likely to be financial stability risks for a stable coin network with global reach," she said in a speech Wednesday. "If not managed effectively, liquidity, credit, market, or operational risks -- alone or in combination -- could trigger a loss of confidence and a classic run."

China, which is not a G7 member and decided two years ago to block cryptocurrency transactions, has recently sped up plans to introduce its own digital money.

Libra also has faced challenges from within after major financial and commercial players in recent weeks have backed out of the project, including Visa, Mastercard, eBay, Stripe, PayPal and the online travel firm Bookings Holdings.

The 21 founding members include the online payments company PayU, the telecoms firms Vodafone and Iliad, as well as tech outfits Uber, Spotify and Farfetch, blockchain operations such as Anchorage, Xapo and Coinbase and the venture capital firms Andreessen Horowitz, Ribbit Capital and non-profits Kiva and Mercy Corps.

Facebook should not launch its global digital currency Libra until proper regulations are in place to handle the potential risks, the Group of Seven said Thursday.

Facebook should not launch its global digital currency Libra until proper regulations are in place to handle the potential risks, the Group of Seven said Thursday. And France's Economy Minister Bruno Le Maire warned that a currency like Libra could undermine sovereign nations' control over their exchange rates. "It's a matter of democracy, not just a simple economic question," Le Maire told reporters, saying Facebook's currency could have an "immediate global reach" through the social network's huge membership. Le Maire presented the Group of Seven nation's statement on Libra, saying "no global stablecoin project should begin operation until the legal, regulatory and oversight challenges and risks are adequately addressed," including the potential for money laundering and terror financing. But, he told reporters, "The key question is the question of sovereignty." "Do we want a private company to have... the same power, and the same sovereignty, as democratic states" over currencies. Libra, which would be backed by reserve assets unlike cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, has faced a steady drumbeat of stern warnings from central bankers and financial regulators. European Central Bank board member Benoit Coeure presented a report on digital currencies to the G7 finance ministers, who are gathering on the margins of the annual meetings of the International Monetary Fund and World Bank. The report said a framework for oversight of Libra "is an absolute prerequisite," and urged regulators to coordinate their work to prevent issuers from seeking out the most favorable country from which to operate. Libra members drop out If it enters circulation, Libra would offer an alternative to traditional bank financial transfers, a disruptive change that has aroused resistance and scepticism. Facebook's digital currency chief David Marcus told reporters in Washington that the issues raised by Le Maire are "legitimate concerns." "We're determined to answer these concerns with real solutions that will meet or exceed the standards of the current system," he told a small group of reporters at an event in Washington. Mark Zuckerberg, Facebook's co-founder and chief executive, was in Washington as well Thursday and is due to testify before the US Congress next week on the social media network's impact on financial services. The Libra Association, which will oversee Facebook's proposed currency and officially launched Monday in Geneva, also said in a statement that Libra "is being designed to respect national sovereignty over monetary policy in the digital space, not undermine it." But central bankers remain concerned about the prospects. Lael Brainard, an influential member of the US Federal Reserve Board, said Facebook's proposed currency presented a host of risks and regulatory challenges for preventing money-laundering and assuring financial stability and could be a challenge to the traditional role played by banks. "There are likely to be financial stability risks for a stable coin network with global reach," she said in a speech Wednesday. "If not managed effectively, liquidity, credit, market, or operational risks -- alone or in combination -- could trigger a loss of confidence and a classic run." China, which is not a G7 member and decided two years ago to block cryptocurrency transactions, has recently sped up plans to introduce its own digital money. Libra also has faced challenges from within after major financial and commercial players in recent weeks have backed out of the project, including Visa, Mastercard, eBay, Stripe, PayPal and the online travel firm Bookings Holdings. The 21 founding members include the online payments company PayU, the telecoms firms Vodafone and Iliad, as well as tech outfits Uber, Spotify and Farfetch, blockchain operations such as Anchorage, Xapo and Coinbase and the venture capital firms Andreessen Horowitz, Ribbit Capital and non-profits Kiva and Mercy Corps.

G7 says Libra should not launch until risks 'adequately addressed'

US President Donald Trump has awarded the hosting of the next G7 summit to one of his own Florida golf clubs, the White House said on Thursday, sparking accusations of corruption from opposition lawmakers and ethics campaigners.&nbsp;

The Trump National Doral Golf Club in Miami was "the best place" among a dozen US venues considered for the June 10-12 gathering next year, acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney told reporters at the White House.

But some members of Congress and civil society groups immediately rebuked Trump for what Democrats called "among the most brazen examples yet of the president's corruption."&nbsp;

"He is exploiting his office and making official US government decisions for his personal financial gain," Jerry Nadler, the chairman of the powerful House Judiciary Committee, said in a statement.

Nadler vowed that Trump's "latest abuse of power" would not distract from the Democratic-led impeachment investigation into allegations that the president pressured Ukraine into interfering on his behalf in the 2020 US election.

Democrats were already probing Trump's suggestion at the most recent G7 gathering in France in August that the next one could be hosted at one of his resorts.

Critics say the move would violate both the foreign and domestic emoluments clauses that are designed to shield a US leader from outside influence.

'Abusing the presidency'

"This is unbelievable," Noah Bookbinder, the executive director of the Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington pressure group, said in a statement.

"Given the potential consequences the president is facing for abusing the presidency for his own gain, we would have thought he would steer clear of blatant corruption at least temporarily; instead he has doubled down on it."

Trump National Doral is vital to Trump's overall finances and was once one of his biggest money-makers -- but it has been in steep decline, according to the Washington Post.

The newspaper reported in May that the resort's net operating income -- the amount left after expenses are paid -- had fallen by 69 per cent in two years.

"The president is now officially using the power of his office to help prop up his struggling golf business. There appears to be no bottom to President Trump's corruption," Bookbinder added.&nbsp;

Walter Shaub, a former director of the Office of Government Ethics and a senior director of ethics at the Campaign Legal Center, tweeted that the decision was "so overtly corrupt" that it could not be viewed as anything other than a loyalty test for senators.

"If they are corrupt enough to look the other way, Trump will know he can do anything," he said.

Asked if Trump was aware the choice of venue would inevitably raise accusations of impropriety, Mulvaney said he was -- and had decided to go ahead anyway.

Empty in June

"We're going to have it there, and there's going to be folks who will never get over the fact that it's a Trump property. We get that, but we're still going there," he told reporters.

Mulvaney said Trump suggested Doral as a venue when his team initially gathered to go over a list of 12 possible venues.

He said Doral would put on the event at cost, which he claimed would be as much as half what it would be at other venues. But he gave no estimates of the cost or comparisons.

An important draw is the club's size -- 900 acres, including three golf courses, according to Mulvaney, who said all the foreign delegations and the press could be housed "on campus."

The Post's David Fahrenthold, who has closely followed Trump Organisation finances, tweeted that Doral was typically empty in June because of the Miami heat.

"Now -- b/c @realdonaldtrump has awarded the summit to himself -- it will be full," he said.

When he touted Doral at the last G7 in Biarritz, Trump brushed off critics who said he was pushing his brand and profiting from his office.

"It's a great place. It's got tremendous acreage, many hundreds of acres, so we can handle whatever happens," he told reporters.

US President Donald Trump has awarded the hosting of the next G7 summit to one of his own Florida golf clubs, the White House said on Thursday, sparking accusations of corruption from opposition lawmakers and ethics campaigners.

US President Donald Trump has awarded the hosting of the next G7 summit to one of his own Florida golf clubs, the White House said on Thursday, sparking accusations of corruption from opposition lawmakers and ethics campaigners. The Trump National Doral Golf Club in Miami was "the best place" among a dozen US venues considered for the June 10-12 gathering next year, acting Chief of Staff Mick Mulvaney told reporters at the White House. But some members of Congress and civil society groups immediately rebuked Trump for what Democrats called "among the most brazen examples yet of the president's corruption." "He is exploiting his office and making official US government decisions for his personal financial gain," Jerry Nadler, the chairman of the powerful House Judiciary Committee, said in a statement. Nadler vowed that Trump's "latest abuse of power" would not distract from the Democratic-led impeachment investigation into allegations that the president pressured Ukraine into interfering on his behalf in the 2020 US election. Democrats were already probing Trump's suggestion at the most recent G7 gathering in France in August that the next one could be hosted at one of his resorts. Critics say the move would violate both the foreign and domestic emoluments clauses that are designed to shield a US leader from outside influence. 'Abusing the presidency' "This is unbelievable," Noah Bookbinder, the executive director of the Citizens for Responsibility and Ethics in Washington pressure group, said in a statement. "Given the potential consequences the president is facing for abusing the presidency for his own gain, we would have thought he would steer clear of blatant corruption at least temporarily; instead he has doubled down on it." Trump National Doral is vital to Trump's overall finances and was once one of his biggest money-makers -- but it has been in steep decline, according to the Washington Post. The newspaper reported in May that the resort's net operating income -- the amount left after expenses are paid -- had fallen by 69 per cent in two years. "The president is now officially using the power of his office to help prop up his struggling golf business. There appears to be no bottom to President Trump's corruption," Bookbinder added. Walter Shaub, a former director of the Office of Government Ethics and a senior director of ethics at the Campaign Legal Center, tweeted that the decision was "so overtly corrupt" that it could not be viewed as anything other than a loyalty test for senators. "If they are corrupt enough to look the other way, Trump will know he can do anything," he said. Asked if Trump was aware the choice of venue would inevitably raise accusations of impropriety, Mulvaney said he was -- and had decided to go ahead anyway. Empty in June "We're going to have it there, and there's going to be folks who will never get over the fact that it's a Trump property. We get that, but we're still going there," he told reporters. Mulvaney said Trump suggested Doral as a venue when his team initially gathered to go over a list of 12 possible venues. He said Doral would put on the event at cost, which he claimed would be as much as half what it would be at other venues. But he gave no estimates of the cost or comparisons. An important draw is the club's size -- 900 acres, including three golf courses, according to Mulvaney, who said all the foreign delegations and the press could be housed "on campus." The Post's David Fahrenthold, who has closely followed Trump Organisation finances, tweeted that Doral was typically empty in June because of the Miami heat. "Now -- b/c @realdonaldtrump has awarded the summit to himself -- it will be full," he said. When he touted Doral at the last G7 in Biarritz, Trump brushed off critics who said he was pushing his brand and profiting from his office. "It's a great place. It's got tremendous acreage, many hundreds of acres, so we can handle whatever happens," he told reporters.

Swift backlash as Donald Trump picks own golf resort to host G7

Canadian police illegally shared details of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-cfos-arrest-at-airport-to-be-focus-of-vancouver-hearing-251487">Meng Wanzhou</a>'s phone with US authorities, lawyers said Thursday, in a bid to have an extradition case against the top Huawei executive thrown out.

The 47-year-old chief financial officer of the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/malaysias-5g-plan-a-potential-boon-for-chinas-huawei-251771"> Chinese telco gian</a>t was detained during a stopover at Vancouver airport last December on a US warrant.

The United States wants to put Meng on trial for fraud for allegedly violating Iran sanctions and lying about it to US banks -- accusations her lawyers dispute.

Meng's lawyers alleged that Canadian border agents and police conducted a "covert criminal investigation" of the Huawei executive on behalf of the American Federal Bureau of Investigations.

This included the unlawful sharing of serial numbers of her phone and other electronic devices, her defence team claimed.

Prosecutors disputed the charges in court filings, saying that Canadian officers were following standard procedures and that Meng's lawyers were on a "fishing expedition."

Meng's team is seeking to prove that her rights were violated during her arrest, in an attempt to put pressure on Canadian authorities to reconsider a decision to proceed with her extradition.

They have also alleged that she was questioned by Canadian border officers for three hours without being advised of her rights or told of the warrant for her extradition.

Meng's detention caused an unprecedented diplomatic rift between Canada and China.

Nine days after Meng's arrest, Beijing detained two Canadians -- former diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor -- accusing them of espionage in a move widely viewed as retaliation.

China has also blocked billions worth of Canadian agricultural shipments, while Canada has rallied the support of allies including Britain, France, Germany and the US, as well as the EU, NATO and the G7.

Meng's defence, arguing that the case is politically motivated, has also pounced on US President Donald Trump's remarks that he might seek to have the charges against Meng dropped in exchange for trade concessions from China.

Canada has insisted that it was following the rule of law in Meng's case, while calling the arrest of its two nationals arbitrary.

It sacked its ambassador to China in January for suggesting that Meng had a "strong case" against extradition, citing Trump's remarks.

Canadian police illegally shared details of Meng Wanzhou's phone with US authorities, lawyers said Thursday, in a bid to have an extradition case against the top Huawei executive thrown out.

Canadian police illegally shared details of Meng Wanzhou's phone with US authorities, lawyers said Thursday, in a bid to have an extradition case against the top Huawei executive thrown out. The 47-year-old chief financial officer of the Chinese telco giant was detained during a stopover at Vancouver airport last December on a US warrant. The United States wants to put Meng on trial for fraud for allegedly violating Iran sanctions and lying about it to US banks -- accusations her lawyers dispute. Meng's lawyers alleged that Canadian border agents and police conducted a "covert criminal investigation" of the Huawei executive on behalf of the American Federal Bureau of Investigations. This included the unlawful sharing of serial numbers of her phone and other electronic devices, her defence team claimed. Prosecutors disputed the charges in court filings, saying that Canadian officers were following standard procedures and that Meng's lawyers were on a "fishing expedition." Meng's team is seeking to prove that her rights were violated during her arrest, in an attempt to put pressure on Canadian authorities to reconsider a decision to proceed with her extradition. They have also alleged that she was questioned by Canadian border officers for three hours without being advised of her rights or told of the warrant for her extradition. Meng's detention caused an unprecedented diplomatic rift between Canada and China. Nine days after Meng's arrest, Beijing detained two Canadians -- former diplomat Michael Kovrig and businessman Michael Spavor -- accusing them of espionage in a move widely viewed as retaliation. China has also blocked billions worth of Canadian agricultural shipments, while Canada has rallied the support of allies including Britain, France, Germany and the US, as well as the EU, NATO and the G7. Meng's defence, arguing that the case is politically motivated, has also pounced on US President Donald Trump's remarks that he might seek to have the charges against Meng dropped in exchange for trade concessions from China. Canada has insisted that it was following the rule of law in Meng's case, while calling the arrest of its two nationals arbitrary. It sacked its ambassador to China in January for suggesting that Meng had a "strong case" against extradition, citing Trump's remarks.

Canadian police illegally shared info on Huawei executive Meng Wanzhou: Lawyers

Here's A List Of Major Issues That Were Discussed During The G7 Summit

Gravitas: Key Issues Discussed at the G7 Summit

Brazil on Monday rejected aid from G7 countries to curb the Amazon wildfires, asking French President Emmanuel Macron to “reforest Europe” instead of showing sympathy there. Watch this video to know more.

Bolsonaro rejects G7 aid for the Amazon, Bolsonaro questions Macron's intentions

What Is G7? Why is This Grouping Significant?

Gravitas: All You need to know about G7

As the Amazon fire raged and the Brazilian government rejected G7 aid, US President Trump that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-president-bolsonaro-open-to-g7-aid-if-macron-withdraws-insults-246047">President Jair Bolsonaro</a> was "working very hard on the Amazon fires".

Trump said in all respects Bolsonaro was doing a great job for the people of Brazil, adding that it wasn't easy.

"He and his country have the full and complete support of the USA!, the US president said.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I have gotten to know President <a href="https://twitter.com/jairbolsonaro?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jairbolsonaro</a> well in our dealings with Brazil. He is working very hard on the Amazon fires and in all respects doing a great job for the people of Brazil - Not easy. He and his country have the full and complete support of the USA!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1166357258726498304?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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On Tuesday, Bolsonaro's government <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-rejects-g7-aid-of-20-million-euros-to-fight-amazon-fires-245885">had refused G7 aid of 20 million euros</a> to fight the Amazon fires with Onyx Lorenzoni, chief of staff to President Jair Bolsonaro asserting that the money was "more relevant to reforest Europe".

"Macron cannot even avoid a foreseeable fire in a church that is a world heritage site. What does he intend to teach our country?" Lorenzoni asked.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/drone-reveals-aftermath-of-amazon-fires-245993/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Hundreds of new fires have flared up in the Amazon in Brazil, data showed Monday, even as military aircraft dumped water over hard-hit areas and G7 nations pledged to help combat the blazes.

Two C-130 Hercules aircraft carrying thousands of liters of water on Sunday had begun dousing fires devouring chunks of the world's largest rainforest, which is seen as crucial to keeping climate change in check.

According to the latest official figures, 80,626 forest fires have been recorded in Brazil this year, the highest number of any year since at least 2013. &nbsp; &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

As the Amazon fire raged and the Brazilian government rejected G7 aid, US President Trump that President Jair Bolsonaro was "working very hard on the Amazon fires".

As the Amazon fire raged and the Brazilian government rejected G7 aid, US President Trump that President Jair Bolsonaro was "working very hard on the Amazon fires". Trump said in all respects Bolsonaro was doing a great job for the people of Brazil, adding that it wasn't easy. "He and his country have the full and complete support of the USA!, the US president said. I have gotten to know President @jairbolsonaro well in our dealings with Brazil. He is working very hard on the Amazon fires and in all respects doing a great job for the people of Brazil - Not easy. He and his country have the full and complete support of the USA! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 27, 2019 × On Tuesday, Bolsonaro's government had refused G7 aid of 20 million euros to fight the Amazon fires with Onyx Lorenzoni, chief of staff to President Jair Bolsonaro asserting that the money was "more relevant to reforest Europe". "Macron cannot even avoid a foreseeable fire in a church that is a world heritage site. What does he intend to teach our country?" Lorenzoni asked. Watch Video: Hundreds of new fires have flared up in the Amazon in Brazil, data showed Monday, even as military aircraft dumped water over hard-hit areas and G7 nations pledged to help combat the blazes. Two C-130 Hercules aircraft carrying thousands of liters of water on Sunday had begun dousing fires devouring chunks of the world's largest rainforest, which is seen as crucial to keeping climate change in check. According to the latest official figures, 80,626 forest fires have been recorded in Brazil this year, the highest number of any year since at least 2013.

Bolsonaro working very hard on Amazon fires, doing a great job: Trump

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-president-bolsonaro-open-to-g7-aid-if-macron-withdraws-insults-246047">Brazil President Bolsonaro open to G7 aid if Macron 'withdraws insults'</a>

Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro said Tuesday he was open to discussing&nbsp;G7 aid for fighting fires&nbsp;in the Amazon if his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron "withdraws insults" made against him, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-increases-military-activity-along-loc-deploys-medium-range-artillery-246007">Pakistan increases military activity along LoC; deploys medium range artillery</a>

Days after India removed special status for Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K), Pakistan after restoring to diplomatic means which failed, is trying to create tensions at the Line of Control(LoC).

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-g7-for-carping-remarks-on-hong-kongs-internal-affairs-246022">China slams G7's 'carping remarks' on Hong Kong's internal affairs</a>

China on Tuesday slammed G7's statement on Hong Kong and said that it's&nbsp;purely internal affairs&nbsp;of China which can well handle it and the members of Group of Seven should not put their nose in with ulterior motives, reported news agency Reuters.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-trump-policies-deepen-farmers-pain-democrats-see-an-opening-in-rural-america-246005">As Trump policies deepen farmers' pain, Democrats see an opening in rural America</a>

Seizing on mounting Farm Belt frustration with&nbsp;President Donald&nbsp;Trump's economic agenda, Democratic rivals are stepping up their push to take back part of&nbsp;rural&nbsp;America, whose overwhelming support for&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;helped propel his upset 2016 election victory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/kabul-accuses-pakistan-of-military-violations-seeks-action-from-united-nations-246034">Kabul accuses Pakistan of military violations; seeks action from United Nations</a>

Seeking an action from the UN against Pakistan,&nbsp;Kabul said that the violations from Pakistan continued in the form of shelling and airspace despite several appeals.

Brazil President Bolsonaro open to G7 aid if Macron 'withdraws insults' Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro said Tuesday he was open to discussing G7 aid for fighting fires in the Amazon if his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron "withdraws insults" made against him, news agency AFP reported.

Brazil President Bolsonaro open to G7 aid if Macron 'withdraws insults' Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro said Tuesday he was open to discussing G7 aid for fighting fires in the Amazon if his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron "withdraws insults" made against him, news agency AFP reported. Pakistan increases military activity along LoC; deploys medium range artillery Days after India removed special status for Jammu and Kashmir(J&K), Pakistan after restoring to diplomatic means which failed, is trying to create tensions at the Line of Control(LoC). China slams G7's 'carping remarks' on Hong Kong's internal affairs China on Tuesday slammed G7's statement on Hong Kong and said that it's purely internal affairs of China which can well handle it and the members of Group of Seven should not put their nose in with ulterior motives, reported news agency Reuters. As Trump policies deepen farmers' pain, Democrats see an opening in rural America Seizing on mounting Farm Belt frustration with President Donald Trump's economic agenda, Democratic rivals are stepping up their push to take back part of rural America, whose overwhelming support for Trump helped propel his upset 2016 election victory. Kabul accuses Pakistan of military violations; seeks action from United Nations Seeking an action from the UN against Pakistan, Kabul said that the violations from Pakistan continued in the form of shelling and airspace despite several appeals.

News brief: Big stories of the day

By Susan Harris Rimmer 
&nbsp; 
Prime Minister Scott Morrison has had a busy fortnight of international diplomacy. Barely had the dust settled from his performance at the Pacific Island Forum in Tuvalu, then the prime minister announced troop commitments to the Straits of Hormuz, then fronted a delicate press conference in Vietnam speaking about the South China Sea, en route to France.

After a year in the top job, Morrison may be slowly understanding what it takes to make an impact at a global level in order to pursue Australia’s interests.

The Golden G7 Ticket

Morrison scored a rare and valuable invitation to the 45th Group of Seven (G7) Summit in Biarritz, France. The G7 membership consists of the industrialised economies of US, France, Germany, Japan, the UK, Italy and Canada, along with the Presidents of the European Union and European Commission, and usually Spain. The World Bank, IMF, OECD, African Union, ILO, African Development Bank and NEPAD are also usually invited, the UN Secretary-General was also there.

The G7 used to be the G8, but Russia is still suspended. On March 24 2014, the G7 members cancelled the planned G8 summit that was to be held in June that year in the Russian city of Sochi, and suspended Russia’s membership of the group, due to Russia’s annexation of Crimea. However, Russia has not been permanently expelled.

French President Emmanuel Macron used his invitations strategically to promote a “league of democracies” concept. He invited leaders from Australia, India, Chile and South Africa to join the outreach activities at the summit, in particular, to attend a Sunday night dinner to discuss environmental challenges.

Australia is a member of the G20, which includes India, Indonesia and China. But it has often cast a wistful eye to Canada’s participation in the G7/8, despite the relative similarity in economic strength between the two nations.

This year, the Henry Jackson Society released its second Audit of Geopolitical Capability report, which assesses the geopolitical capability of the Group of 20 nations plus Nigeria. It ranked Australia as the eighth-most capable in the world, ahead of India and Russia.

But since the election of Donald Trump as US president, the G7 has lost much of its consensus and related power. The 2019 summit was like an Agatha Christie play, full of shocks, tensions, surprise reveals and difficulties.

Tensions and Diplomatic Shocks

The US president walked out early from last year’s G7 summit in Canada over criticism of his tariffs policy, and then refused to sign the final statement. Macron, therefore, organised the summit to have a two-hour lunch alone with the president and abandoned the idea of a final communique.

Saturday working sessions were held on jobs, global inequality, climate change and women’s empowerment, leading to criticisms from the US delegation that the agenda was too “niche”. Sunday was devoted to the extremely difficult trade discussions and the Amazon forest fires.

The European G7 nations, as well as other EU members such as Ireland and Spain, sparred over whether to block the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement unless Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro takes forceful action on the forest fires raging in the Amazon and on climate change in general.

Trump pulled out of the Paris Climate Agreement in 2017, shortly after he attended his first G7 in Italy. Climate was still a sticking point at this summit, with leadership from the G7 unlikely on climate as an economic risk.

The Saturday dinner was thrown into an uproar by Trump championing the re-entry of Russia to the G7, with the EU arguing back that Crimea would be better.

Sunday saw the surprise arrival of Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif to meet with Macron. Zarif, sanctioned by the US, said salvaging the 2015 nuclear deal would be difficult but “worth trying”.

Trump withdrew the US from the Iran nuclear accord in 2018, leaving European signatories scrambling to preserve the pact. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she welcomed efforts toward deescalation. Europeans have so far declined to join Australia, the US, Bahrain and the UK by engaging in the Strait of Hormuz. The situation in Hong Kong was barely raised.

Salty Summit

Just before the summit, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson – attending his first G7 summit – and European Council President Donald Tusk traded barbs over the UK’s exit from the European Union. Tusk said he would not negotiate a no-deal scenario, and said he hoped the prime minister did not want to go down in history as “Mr No Deal”. Johnson took a swim in the sea and created a lengthy metaphor for journalists about Brexit as a result.

Most world leaders attending the summit declared they would ask the US to resolve the trade war with China. However, Trump announced additional duties on Chinese imports one day before he arrived in France. He then threatened to levy import duties on French wine “Like they’ve never seen before”. The US president also said the British would lose “the anchor around their ankle” after leaving the EU.

Outside the summit, more than 9,000 anti-G7 protesters marched peacefully over a bridge linking France and Spain, about 30 kilometres from Biarritz. Yellow Jacket protesters held pictures of Macron upside-down.

Australian Leadership on Digital Hate

In the midst of such turmoil, it would be difficult to make an impact as an invited guest. However, Morrison kept up his advocacy on the Christchurch Call.

At the close of the G7, Morrison announced an undisclosed amount of funding from the OECD and $300,000 to fund the development of voluntary transparency reporting protocols for social media companies to prevent, detect, and remove terrorist and violent extremist content.

A Summit of ‘Senseless Disputes’

This was the EU President Tusk’s final G7 Summit and he reflected sadly on Saturday that leaders of the world’s richest and most powerful democracies are increasingly unable to find “common language”, and were instead at risk of getting caught up in “senseless disputes among each other”.

The summit seems to have borne out his worse fears. Hopefully, Scott Morrison was inspired by the fractured state of the big stage to become part of the solution.

(Susan Harris Rimmer is Australian Research Council Future Fellow, Griffith Law School, Griffith University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/g7-throws-up-plenty-of-controversy-and-debate-but-little-compromise-122042">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

By Susan Harris Rimmer Prime Minister Scott Morrison has had a busy fortnight of international diplomacy. Barely had the dust settled from his performance at the Pacific Island Forum in Tuvalu, then the prime minister announced troop commitments to the Straits of Hormuz, then fronted a delicate press conference in Vietnam speaking about the South China Sea, en route to France.

By Susan Harris Rimmer Prime Minister Scott Morrison has had a busy fortnight of international diplomacy. Barely had the dust settled from his performance at the Pacific Island Forum in Tuvalu, then the prime minister announced troop commitments to the Straits of Hormuz, then fronted a delicate press conference in Vietnam speaking about the South China Sea, en route to France. After a year in the top job, Morrison may be slowly understanding what it takes to make an impact at a global level in order to pursue Australia’s interests. The Golden G7 Ticket Morrison scored a rare and valuable invitation to the 45th Group of Seven (G7) Summit in Biarritz, France. The G7 membership consists of the industrialised economies of US, France, Germany, Japan, the UK, Italy and Canada, along with the Presidents of the European Union and European Commission, and usually Spain. The World Bank, IMF, OECD, African Union, ILO, African Development Bank and NEPAD are also usually invited, the UN Secretary-General was also there. The G7 used to be the G8, but Russia is still suspended. On March 24 2014, the G7 members cancelled the planned G8 summit that was to be held in June that year in the Russian city of Sochi, and suspended Russia’s membership of the group, due to Russia’s annexation of Crimea. However, Russia has not been permanently expelled. French President Emmanuel Macron used his invitations strategically to promote a “league of democracies” concept. He invited leaders from Australia, India, Chile and South Africa to join the outreach activities at the summit, in particular, to attend a Sunday night dinner to discuss environmental challenges. Australia is a member of the G20, which includes India, Indonesia and China. But it has often cast a wistful eye to Canada’s participation in the G7/8, despite the relative similarity in economic strength between the two nations. This year, the Henry Jackson Society released its second Audit of Geopolitical Capability report, which assesses the geopolitical capability of the Group of 20 nations plus Nigeria. It ranked Australia as the eighth-most capable in the world, ahead of India and Russia. But since the election of Donald Trump as US president, the G7 has lost much of its consensus and related power. The 2019 summit was like an Agatha Christie play, full of shocks, tensions, surprise reveals and difficulties. Tensions and Diplomatic Shocks The US president walked out early from last year’s G7 summit in Canada over criticism of his tariffs policy, and then refused to sign the final statement. Macron, therefore, organised the summit to have a two-hour lunch alone with the president and abandoned the idea of a final communique. Saturday working sessions were held on jobs, global inequality, climate change and women’s empowerment, leading to criticisms from the US delegation that the agenda was too “niche”. Sunday was devoted to the extremely difficult trade discussions and the Amazon forest fires. The European G7 nations, as well as other EU members such as Ireland and Spain, sparred over whether to block the EU-Mercosur free trade agreement unless Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro takes forceful action on the forest fires raging in the Amazon and on climate change in general. Trump pulled out of the Paris Climate Agreement in 2017, shortly after he attended his first G7 in Italy. Climate was still a sticking point at this summit, with leadership from the G7 unlikely on climate as an economic risk. The Saturday dinner was thrown into an uproar by Trump championing the re-entry of Russia to the G7, with the EU arguing back that Crimea would be better. Sunday saw the surprise arrival of Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif to meet with Macron. Zarif, sanctioned by the US, said salvaging the 2015 nuclear deal would be difficult but “worth trying”. Trump withdrew the US from the Iran nuclear accord in 2018, leaving European signatories scrambling to preserve the pact. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said she welcomed efforts toward deescalation. Europeans have so far declined to join Australia, the US, Bahrain and the UK by engaging in the Strait of Hormuz. The situation in Hong Kong was barely raised. Salty Summit Just before the summit, UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson – attending his first G7 summit – and European Council President Donald Tusk traded barbs over the UK’s exit from the European Union. Tusk said he would not negotiate a no-deal scenario, and said he hoped the prime minister did not want to go down in history as “Mr No Deal”. Johnson took a swim in the sea and created a lengthy metaphor for journalists about Brexit as a result. Most world leaders attending the summit declared they would ask the US to resolve the trade war with China. However, Trump announced additional duties on Chinese imports one day before he arrived in France. He then threatened to levy import duties on French wine “Like they’ve never seen before”. The US president also said the British would lose “the anchor around their ankle” after leaving the EU. Outside the summit, more than 9,000 anti-G7 protesters marched peacefully over a bridge linking France and Spain, about 30 kilometres from Biarritz. Yellow Jacket protesters held pictures of Macron upside-down. Australian Leadership on Digital Hate In the midst of such turmoil, it would be difficult to make an impact as an invited guest. However, Morrison kept up his advocacy on the Christchurch Call. At the close of the G7, Morrison announced an undisclosed amount of funding from the OECD and $300,000 to fund the development of voluntary transparency reporting protocols for social media companies to prevent, detect, and remove terrorist and violent extremist content. A Summit of ‘Senseless Disputes’ This was the EU President Tusk’s final G7 Summit and he reflected sadly on Saturday that leaders of the world’s richest and most powerful democracies are increasingly unable to find “common language”, and were instead at risk of getting caught up in “senseless disputes among each other”. The summit seems to have borne out his worse fears. Hopefully, Scott Morrison was inspired by the fractured state of the big stage to become part of the solution. (Susan Harris Rimmer is Australian Research Council Future Fellow, Griffith Law School, Griffith University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

G7 Summit throws up plenty of debate, but little compromise

From climate change to tender for e-rickshaws to India's membership for the Nuclear Suppliers' groups were among the topics that dominated the talks when Prime Minister Narendra Modi sat with world leaders on the sidelines of the G7 summit.

Climate Change was the focus when PM held talks with UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday evening.

United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) understood India's position on its bid for Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and said that he is willing to help on the matter when Guterres raised concerns over India's thermal power plants in the context of climate change. New Delhi has been focusing on renewable and nuclear energy in a bid to curtail pollution.

"PM referred to UNSG that nuclear power is investment intensive industry and membership to NSG is crucial to building investor confidence", Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said in a press conference.

PM will address the United Nations General assembly in September and will be a keynote speaker at UN Climate Change summit.&nbsp;

With the UK, PM Modi began by congratulating his counterpart Johnson on England’s spectacular win in the third Test of the Ashes. Overall economics dominated the agenda in the wake of Britain's exit from the European Union.

Johnson specifically talked about the need to develop a partnership between the two countries and he understood that it is important for access to be given for talented Indians to the UK

With a focus on developing a partnership in the post-Brexit scenario, both leaders agreed to form a small team to enhance the economic alliance between India and the UK.&nbsp;

The UK plans to leave the European Union by the end of October this year.

PM Modi also met President of Senegal Macky Sall. India has given 250 solar-powered e-rickshaws to the West African country.&nbsp;

President of Senegal told PM a substantial tender will be placed in this regard soon.&nbsp;

PM also attended a dedicated session of G7 Biarritz summit on ‘Biodiversity, Oceans, Climate’ and underlined India’s contribution to reducing biodiversity, climate change, water stress and ocean pollution.

PM Modi was on a three-nation visit --France, UAE and Bahrain.

From climate change to tender for e-rickshaws to India's membership for the Nuclear Suppliers' groups were among the topics that dominated the talks when Prime Minister Narendra Modi sat with world leaders on the sidelines of the G7 summit.

From climate change to tender for e-rickshaws to India's membership for the Nuclear Suppliers' groups were among the topics that dominated the talks when Prime Minister Narendra Modi sat with world leaders on the sidelines of the G7 summit. Climate Change was the focus when PM held talks with UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Sunday evening. United Nations Secretary-General (UNSG) understood India's position on its bid for Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) and said that he is willing to help on the matter when Guterres raised concerns over India's thermal power plants in the context of climate change. New Delhi has been focusing on renewable and nuclear energy in a bid to curtail pollution. "PM referred to UNSG that nuclear power is investment intensive industry and membership to NSG is crucial to building investor confidence", Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale said in a press conference. PM will address the United Nations General assembly in September and will be a keynote speaker at UN Climate Change summit. With the UK, PM Modi began by congratulating his counterpart Johnson on England’s spectacular win in the third Test of the Ashes. Overall economics dominated the agenda in the wake of Britain's exit from the European Union. Johnson specifically talked about the need to develop a partnership between the two countries and he understood that it is important for access to be given for talented Indians to the UK With a focus on developing a partnership in the post-Brexit scenario, both leaders agreed to form a small team to enhance the economic alliance between India and the UK. The UK plans to leave the European Union by the end of October this year. PM Modi also met President of Senegal Macky Sall. India has given 250 solar-powered e-rickshaws to the West African country. President of Senegal told PM a substantial tender will be placed in this regard soon. PM also attended a dedicated session of G7 Biarritz summit on ‘Biodiversity, Oceans, Climate’ and underlined India’s contribution to reducing biodiversity, climate change, water stress and ocean pollution. PM Modi was on a three-nation visit --France, UAE and Bahrain.

Talks on climate change to NSG membership, big takeaways from PM Modi's participation at G7 summit

Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pm-modi-meets-president-trump-at-g7-summit-245727">Narendra Modi</a> told UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during their meeting on Sunday that repeal of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/fulfilled-sardar-patels-dream-by-making-jammu-and-kashmir-inseparable-part-of-india-amit-shah-on-abrogation-of-article-370-245290">Article 370 </a>was India's internal matter and no step has been taken by New Delhi that in any manner threatens regional peace.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/wion-edit-india-at-g7-summit-fighting-inequality-245809">WION Edit: India at G7 Summit - 'Fighting Inequality'</a>

The Prime Minister also told Guterres during their meeting on the sidelines of the G-7 summit that terrorism was the primary threat and concern and in keeping with that certain restrictions will remain in place in Jammu and Kashmir to ensure law and order is maintained.

He said the restrictions will be progressively lifted.

Foreign Secretary Vijay K Gokhale, who briefed reporters here on Monday about Modi's three-nation visit and his participation in G-7 summit, said that UN Secretary General's primary aim of calling on the Prime Minister was climate change summit. Modi conveyed that India stood with him on this.

Answering a query if there was some discussion on Kashmir, he said there was "some discussion there."

Watch: Abrogation of Article 370, bifurcation is India's internal matter, says S Jaishankar

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"The Prime Minister essentially laid out our basic position on the internal matter that Article 370 is under the Constitution, that on international front no step has been taken by India in any way or form to threaten regional peace and stability, that normalcy is returning to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, that in many areas restricts substantially eased or entirely removed and underlining that people and the state have faced terrorism for 30 or more years and that this is the primary threat, this is our concern and therefore, in keeping with that certain restrictions will remain in place to ensure law and order is maintained and will be progressively lifted," he said.

The PMO had said in a tweet after Modi's meeting with Guterres that the two leaders had "fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> met <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> Secretary General Mr. <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@antonioguterres</a> on the sidelines of the <a href="https://twitter.com/G7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@G7</a> Summit. The two leaders had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects. <a href="https://t.co/JuGsftQKRT">pic.twitter.com/JuGsftQKRT</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1165670577685876740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Answering a query about the discussion on Kashmir during the meeting between Modi and US President Donald Trump, Gokhale said: "You have heard publicly what Prime Minister and President Trump have said."

Asked about their conversation last night with Trump, he said Prime Minister Modi has made India's position clear and "there was no further discussion at this (Monday's) meeting."

Answering another query, he said there was also no discussion on Kashmir issue in Prime Minister's meetings with Trump and UK Prime Minister Borris Johnson.

The Indian government had earlier this month repealed Article 370, which gave special powers to Jammu and Kashmir and also reorganised Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories.

During his three-nation visit, Modi also visited the UAE and Bahrain apart from France.

"We go back with a sense of satisfaction both at the multilateral aspect of the visit and the bilateral aspects," he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during their meeting on Sunday that repeal of Article 370 was India's internal matter and no step has been taken by New Delhi that in any manner threatens regional peace.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi told UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres during their meeting on Sunday that repeal of Article 370 was India's internal matter and no step has been taken by New Delhi that in any manner threatens regional peace. WION Edit: India at G7 Summit - 'Fighting Inequality' The Prime Minister also told Guterres during their meeting on the sidelines of the G-7 summit that terrorism was the primary threat and concern and in keeping with that certain restrictions will remain in place in Jammu and Kashmir to ensure law and order is maintained. He said the restrictions will be progressively lifted. Foreign Secretary Vijay K Gokhale, who briefed reporters here on Monday about Modi's three-nation visit and his participation in G-7 summit, said that UN Secretary General's primary aim of calling on the Prime Minister was climate change summit. Modi conveyed that India stood with him on this. Answering a query if there was some discussion on Kashmir, he said there was "some discussion there." Watch: Abrogation of Article 370, bifurcation is India's internal matter, says S Jaishankar × "The Prime Minister essentially laid out our basic position on the internal matter that Article 370 is under the Constitution, that on international front no step has been taken by India in any way or form to threaten regional peace and stability, that normalcy is returning to the state of Jammu and Kashmir, that in many areas restricts substantially eased or entirely removed and underlining that people and the state have faced terrorism for 30 or more years and that this is the primary threat, this is our concern and therefore, in keeping with that certain restrictions will remain in place to ensure law and order is maintained and will be progressively lifted," he said. The PMO had said in a tweet after Modi's meeting with Guterres that the two leaders had "fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects." PM @narendramodi met @UN Secretary General Mr. @antonioguterres on the sidelines of the @G7 Summit. The two leaders had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects. pic.twitter.com/JuGsftQKRT — PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 25, 2019 × Answering a query about the discussion on Kashmir during the meeting between Modi and US President Donald Trump, Gokhale said: "You have heard publicly what Prime Minister and President Trump have said." Asked about their conversation last night with Trump, he said Prime Minister Modi has made India's position clear and "there was no further discussion at this (Monday's) meeting." Answering another query, he said there was also no discussion on Kashmir issue in Prime Minister's meetings with Trump and UK Prime Minister Borris Johnson. The Indian government had earlier this month repealed Article 370, which gave special powers to Jammu and Kashmir and also reorganised Jammu and Kashmir into two union territories. During his three-nation visit, Modi also visited the UAE and Bahrain apart from France. "We go back with a sense of satisfaction both at the multilateral aspect of the visit and the bilateral aspects," he said.

Repealing Article 370 is India's internal matter, PM Modi tells UN Secretary General

Major fashion companies from around the world said on Friday they had signed a pact which they would present at this week's G7 summit to help protect the environment.

The pact has been signed by 32 companies including the likes of Adidas, Burberry, Kering, Hermes, Nike, Prada and Puma.

The Karl Lagerfeld brand associated with LVMH's Fendi label is also involved, although the LVMH parent company itself is not part of the pact.

Protecting the environment will be a leading issue at the G7, with French President Emmanuel Macron and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres having expressed concern this week over wildfires raging through the Amazon.

The companies, whose representatives were meeting French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday, said they would aim to use methods that would protect forests and cut down on the use of plastic.

Major fashion companies from around the world said on Friday they had signed a pact which they would present at this week's G7 summit to help protect the environment.

Major fashion companies from around the world said on Friday they had signed a pact which they would present at this week's G7 summit to help protect the environment. The pact has been signed by 32 companies including the likes of Adidas, Burberry, Kering, Hermes, Nike, Prada and Puma. The Karl Lagerfeld brand associated with LVMH's Fendi label is also involved, although the LVMH parent company itself is not part of the pact. Protecting the environment will be a leading issue at the G7, with French President Emmanuel Macron and United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres having expressed concern this week over wildfires raging through the Amazon. The companies, whose representatives were meeting French President Emmanuel Macron on Friday, said they would aim to use methods that would protect forests and cut down on the use of plastic.

Major fashion companies to make G7 pledge to help environment

The G7 is, perhaps, the world’s most important grouping when it comes to economic management and development. It has been so for the last 44 years. These annual summits were begun to thrash out issues of economic importance. When it was created in 1975, the group was G6 -- with six countries that had the lion's share of the global economy.&nbsp;

Canada was included later. In the early years, the group attempted to strengthen democracy around the world, fight the closed-market the then-Soviet Union and East Bloc. Now its scope is broader. For instance, this year's G7 theme is “Fighting inequality”.

At the same time, over the decades, the group has lost some of its sheen as many key countries are not included. Thus, the G20 emerged as more important than the G7. It is inconceivable that any group aiming to fight inequality should keep India and China out of it.&nbsp;

Today India and China are among the top seven countries in terms of the world’s GDP share. Besides, there is a power shift with India and China demonstrating the potential to drive what is billed as the ‘Asian Century’. Decisions crucial to the global economy cannot be made by keeping India out. 
 
The G7 needs to upgrade both its membership and mindset.&nbsp;

All major economies including the European Union nations and the US are seeking stronger trade ties and economic relations with India, which is now a magnet for rising foreign investment. India should be engaged as an equal partner by these developed nations in the interests of the global economy especially if its self-appointed leaders are serious about avowed objectives like “Fighting Inequality”. &nbsp; 
&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

The G7 is, perhaps, the world’s most important grouping when it comes to economic management and development. It has been so for the last 44 years. These annual summits were begun to thrash out issues of economic importance.

The G7 is, perhaps, the world’s most important grouping when it comes to economic management and development. It has been so for the last 44 years. These annual summits were begun to thrash out issues of economic importance. When it was created in 1975, the group was G6 -- with six countries that had the lion's share of the global economy. Canada was included later. In the early years, the group attempted to strengthen democracy around the world, fight the closed-market the then-Soviet Union and East Bloc. Now its scope is broader. For instance, this year's G7 theme is “Fighting inequality”. At the same time, over the decades, the group has lost some of its sheen as many key countries are not included. Thus, the G20 emerged as more important than the G7. It is inconceivable that any group aiming to fight inequality should keep India and China out of it. Today India and China are among the top seven countries in terms of the world’s GDP share. Besides, there is a power shift with India and China demonstrating the potential to drive what is billed as the ‘Asian Century’. Decisions crucial to the global economy cannot be made by keeping India out. The G7 needs to upgrade both its membership and mindset. All major economies including the European Union nations and the US are seeking stronger trade ties and economic relations with India, which is now a magnet for rising foreign investment. India should be engaged as an equal partner by these developed nations in the interests of the global economy especially if its self-appointed leaders are serious about avowed objectives like “Fighting Inequality”. (Disclaimer: WION Edit is the channel's take on the big events of the world)

WION Edit: India at G7 Summit - 'Fighting Inequality'

The G7 has agreed to spend 20 million euros ($22 million) on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/why-are-amazon-fires-so-damaging-and-how-can-we-stop-them-245735">Amazon</a>, mainly to send firefighting aircraft to tackle the huge blazes engulfing many parts of the world's biggest rainforest, the presidents of France and Chile announced Monday.

The G7 club -- comprising Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States -- has also agreed to support a medium-term reforestation plan which will be unveiled at the UN in September, France's Emmanuel Macron and Chile's Sebastian Pinera said at the G7 summit in southwest France.

Brazil would have to agree to any reforestation plan, as would indigenous communities living in the Amazon.

The initiative was announced after G7 leaders meeting in the resort of Biarritz held talks on the environment, focusing on the record number of fires destroying chunks of the Amazon.

Macron had declared the situation in the Amazon region an "international crisis" and made it one of the summit's priorities.

He has threatened to block a huge new trade deal between the EU and Latin America unless Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, a climate change sceptic, takes serious steps to protect the forest from logging and mining.

"We must respond to the call of the forest which is burning today in the Amazon," Macron said Monday.

Nearly 80,000 forest fires have been detected in Brazil since the beginning of the year, a little over half in the massive Amazon basin.

Bolsonaro has lashed out at Macron over his criticism and suggested that NGOs could be setting the fires to embarrass him -- without giving any evidence to back the claim.

But at the weekend he finally caved into international pressure to save a region crucial for maintaining a stable global climate, deploying two aircraft to douse the fires and authorising the army to help tackle the blazes.

Speaking in Biarritz, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said new planting was needed "to preserve this universal heritage, which is absolutely essential for the well-being of the world's population."

He said that the issue would be discussed during the UN General Assembly in New York in September.

The G7 has agreed to spend 20 million euros ($22 million) on the Amazon, mainly to send firefighting aircraft to tackle the huge blazes engulfing many parts of the world's biggest rainforest, the presidents of France and Chile announced Monday.

The G7 has agreed to spend 20 million euros ($22 million) on the Amazon, mainly to send firefighting aircraft to tackle the huge blazes engulfing many parts of the world's biggest rainforest, the presidents of France and Chile announced Monday. The G7 club -- comprising Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United States -- has also agreed to support a medium-term reforestation plan which will be unveiled at the UN in September, France's Emmanuel Macron and Chile's Sebastian Pinera said at the G7 summit in southwest France. Brazil would have to agree to any reforestation plan, as would indigenous communities living in the Amazon. The initiative was announced after G7 leaders meeting in the resort of Biarritz held talks on the environment, focusing on the record number of fires destroying chunks of the Amazon. Macron had declared the situation in the Amazon region an "international crisis" and made it one of the summit's priorities. He has threatened to block a huge new trade deal between the EU and Latin America unless Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro, a climate change sceptic, takes serious steps to protect the forest from logging and mining. "We must respond to the call of the forest which is burning today in the Amazon," Macron said Monday. Nearly 80,000 forest fires have been detected in Brazil since the beginning of the year, a little over half in the massive Amazon basin. Bolsonaro has lashed out at Macron over his criticism and suggested that NGOs could be setting the fires to embarrass him -- without giving any evidence to back the claim. But at the weekend he finally caved into international pressure to save a region crucial for maintaining a stable global climate, deploying two aircraft to douse the fires and authorising the army to help tackle the blazes. Speaking in Biarritz, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said new planting was needed "to preserve this universal heritage, which is absolutely essential for the well-being of the world's population." He said that the issue would be discussed during the UN General Assembly in New York in September.

G7 pledges millions to help fight Amazon fires

India's foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale while briefing the media on PM Modi's engagement at the G7 summit said that Prime Minister Johnson and the Indian prime minister discussed climate change.

"The meeting with UK PM Johnson and&nbsp;PM Modi went well," Vijay Gokhale informed reporters.

PM Modi had held bilateral talks with Britain's new Prime Minister Boris Johnson on the sidelines of the G7 Summit on Sunday.

It was the first engagement between the two leaders ever since Boris Johnson took charge as the British PM.&nbsp;

On Monday, PM Modi met President Trump as the two leaders exchanged views on trade and energy.

PM Modi had a forty-minute long meeting with President Trump, India's foreign secretary added.

As the two leaders met, Trump said he had spoken to PM Modi on Kashmir while stating that "PM Modi felt he had it under control".

Gokhale also said that the PM Modi met UN chief on the sidelines of the G7 summit.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

India's foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale while briefing the media on PM Modi's engagement at the G7 summit said that Prime Minister Johnson and the Indian prime minister discussed climate change.

India's foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale while briefing the media on PM Modi's engagement at the G7 summit said that Prime Minister Johnson and the Indian prime minister discussed climate change. "The meeting with UK PM Johnson and PM Modi went well," Vijay Gokhale informed reporters. PM Modi had held bilateral talks with Britain's new Prime Minister Boris Johnson on the sidelines of the G7 Summit on Sunday. It was the first engagement between the two leaders ever since Boris Johnson took charge as the British PM. On Monday, PM Modi met President Trump as the two leaders exchanged views on trade and energy. PM Modi had a forty-minute long meeting with President Trump, India's foreign secretary added. As the two leaders met, Trump said he had spoken to PM Modi on Kashmir while stating that "PM Modi felt he had it under control". Gokhale also said that the PM Modi met UN chief on the sidelines of the G7 summit.

Johnson, Modi spoke on climate change at G7: Foreign secretary Vijay Gokhale

The rejection of international law is on the rise, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Monday, during a meeting in Beijing with the Chinese government's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi.

"Rejection of international law, not just lack of respect for international law, but, in fact, contempt for international law, is on the rise and we need to work together," Zarif told Wang, in comments in front of reporters.

Zarif said he was in Beijing to brief the Chinese official on his recent meetings in France on the Iran nuclear deal, but he gave no details.

Zarif arrived in China after a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-foreign-minister-zarif-leaves-g7-talks-unclear-if-progress-made-to-ease-tensions-245637">visit to the G7 summit for talks with host France</a>, as Paris ramped up efforts to ease the tension between Tehran and Washington, a dramatic diplomatic move that the White House said had surprised it.

The 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and major powers aimed to curb Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of many international sanctions on Tehran.

Since pulling Washington out of the deal last year, US President Donald Trump has pushed a maximum-pressure policy to try to force Iran into a new negotiation that would include its ballistic missile programme and regional activities.

Watch: Iran FM Javad Zarif makes surprise visit to G7 Summit

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China has close energy and diplomatic ties with Iran, and is one of the signatories to the nuclear deal, which it says must be upheld.

"We are comprehensive strategic partners," Wang said. "That speaks to the high level of our relationship and our close strategic cooperation."

Zarif said he was particularly excited by the Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to recreate the old Silk Road with massive infrastructure spending connecting China with the rest of Asia and beyond.

Iran considers the Belt and Road "to be the future of our region and our global interactions", he added.

The rejection of international law is on the rise, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Monday, during a meeting in Beijing with the Chinese government's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi.

The rejection of international law is on the rise, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif said on Monday, during a meeting in Beijing with the Chinese government's top diplomat, State Councillor Wang Yi. "Rejection of international law, not just lack of respect for international law, but, in fact, contempt for international law, is on the rise and we need to work together," Zarif told Wang, in comments in front of reporters. Zarif said he was in Beijing to brief the Chinese official on his recent meetings in France on the Iran nuclear deal, but he gave no details. Zarif arrived in China after a visit to the G7 summit for talks with host France, as Paris ramped up efforts to ease the tension between Tehran and Washington, a dramatic diplomatic move that the White House said had surprised it. The 2015 nuclear deal between Iran and major powers aimed to curb Iran's nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of many international sanctions on Tehran. Since pulling Washington out of the deal last year, US President Donald Trump has pushed a maximum-pressure policy to try to force Iran into a new negotiation that would include its ballistic missile programme and regional activities. Watch: Iran FM Javad Zarif makes surprise visit to G7 Summit × China has close energy and diplomatic ties with Iran, and is one of the signatories to the nuclear deal, which it says must be upheld. "We are comprehensive strategic partners," Wang said. "That speaks to the high level of our relationship and our close strategic cooperation." Zarif said he was particularly excited by the Belt and Road Initiative, which aims to recreate the old Silk Road with massive infrastructure spending connecting China with the rest of Asia and beyond. Iran considers the Belt and Road "to be the future of our region and our global interactions", he added.

Rejection of international law on the rise, says Iran's foreign minister Javad Zarif

British and Australian leaders briefly set aside talks on global trade, security and the environment on Monday for a spot of jovial banter about cricket after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/unbelievable-ben-stokes-was-too-good-for-australia-says-tim-paine-245658">England beat Australia</a> in dramatic fashion.

Britain's Boris Johnson met Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on the sidelines of a G7 summit in the French resort of Biarritz a day after England cricketer Ben Stokes dragged his country from the point of defeat to a narrow victory.

Smiling and shaking hands at the start of their meeting Morrison congratulated Johnson on the result, which evens up this year's Ashes duel between cricket's oldest international rivals. The series of five matches runs into September.

"We're not taking anything for granted," Johnson replied as the two men posed for photographers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/jack-leach-to-get-free-spectacles-for-life-says-official-sponsor-of-ashes-245685">Jack Leach to get free spectacles for life, says official sponsor of Ashes</a>

Johnson first heard of England's win, which for much of the match had seemed impossible, when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi broke the news during a meeting on Sunday. He later called for an iPad and watched the highlights between engagements.

Morrison tempered his well-wishes to Johnson by joking,&nbsp;"Two to go, two to go", referring to the final two games of the series, which is now tied at 1-1.

British and Australian leaders briefly set aside talks on global trade, security and the environment on Monday for a spot of jovial banter about cricket after England beat Australia in dramatic fashion.

British and Australian leaders briefly set aside talks on global trade, security and the environment on Monday for a spot of jovial banter about cricket after England beat Australia in dramatic fashion. Britain's Boris Johnson met Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison on the sidelines of a G7 summit in the French resort of Biarritz a day after England cricketer Ben Stokes dragged his country from the point of defeat to a narrow victory. Smiling and shaking hands at the start of their meeting Morrison congratulated Johnson on the result, which evens up this year's Ashes duel between cricket's oldest international rivals. The series of five matches runs into September. "We're not taking anything for granted," Johnson replied as the two men posed for photographers. Also read: Jack Leach to get free spectacles for life, says official sponsor of Ashes Johnson first heard of England's win, which for much of the match had seemed impossible, when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi broke the news during a meeting on Sunday. He later called for an iPad and watched the highlights between engagements. Morrison tempered his well-wishes to Johnson by joking, "Two to go, two to go", referring to the final two games of the series, which is now tied at 1-1.

PM Modi first person to inform British PM Boris Johnson about England's 3rd Test win: Report

PM Modi met US President Trump today at the sidelines of the G-7 summit after their dinner meeting on Sunday night.

"We spoke about common values," PM Modi said with President Trump by his side while adding that they were in touch on trade issues.

"We spoke last night about Kashmir, Prime Minister really feels he has it under control, the US President said, adding, "they speak with Pakistan and I'm sure that they will be able to do something that will be very good."&nbsp;

"All issues between India and&nbsp;Pakistan are bilateral in nature, that is why we don't bother any other country regarding them," PM Modi told President Trump during the meeting.

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Happening Now | PM Modi meets US President Trump on the sidelines of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G7Summit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G7Summit</a>. Trade talks high on agenda.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ModiAtG7?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ModiAtG7</a> 
 
Catch live visuals from <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Biarritz?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Biarritz</a>, France: <a href="https://t.co/iSR65rv97J">https://t.co/iSR65rv97J</a> <a href="https://t.co/baqDGJk92j">pic.twitter.com/baqDGJk92j</a>
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"We are talking about trade, we're talking about military and many different things. We had some great discussions, we were together last night for dinner and I learned a lot about India," Trump said.

After briefing reporters, PM Modi and President Trump began their bilateral meeting. This is PM Modi's first bilateral meeting of the day.

Last week both Trump and PM Modi had spoken to each other during which the Indian prime minister had raised the rhetoric from Islamabad over the Indian Parliament's decision to abrogate article 370 of the constitution which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: US President Donald Trump during bilateral meet with PM Modi at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/G7Summit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#G7Summit</a> says,"We spoke last night about Kashmir, Prime Minister really feels he has it under control. They speak with Pakistan and I'm sure that they will be able to do something that will be very good." <a href="https://t.co/FhydcW4uK1">pic.twitter.com/FhydcW4uK1</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1165939861607669760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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It is after a gap of more than ten&nbsp;years that India has been invited at the G7 summit, the last time being 2005 when the then British Prime Minister Tony Blair had invited the then Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the Gleneagles Summit.&nbsp;

India is not a member country of the G-7, and the invitation to participate in the summit was extended by France.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

PM Modi met US President Trump today at the sidelines of the G-7 summit after their dinner meeting on Sunday night. "We spoke about common values," PM Modi said with President Trump by his side while adding that they were in touch on trade issues.

PM Modi met US President Trump today at the sidelines of the G-7 summit after their dinner meeting on Sunday night. "We spoke about common values," PM Modi said with President Trump by his side while adding that they were in touch on trade issues. "We spoke last night about Kashmir, Prime Minister really feels he has it under control, the US President said, adding, "they speak with Pakistan and I'm sure that they will be able to do something that will be very good." "All issues between India and Pakistan are bilateral in nature, that is why we don't bother any other country regarding them," PM Modi told President Trump during the meeting. Happening Now | PM Modi meets US President Trump on the sidelines of #G7Summit. Trade talks high on agenda.#ModiAtG7 Catch live visuals from #Biarritz, France: https://t.co/iSR65rv97J pic.twitter.com/baqDGJk92j — WION (@WIONews) August 26, 2019 × "We are talking about trade, we're talking about military and many different things. We had some great discussions, we were together last night for dinner and I learned a lot about India," Trump said. After briefing reporters, PM Modi and President Trump began their bilateral meeting. This is PM Modi's first bilateral meeting of the day. Last week both Trump and PM Modi had spoken to each other during which the Indian prime minister had raised the rhetoric from Islamabad over the Indian Parliament's decision to abrogate article 370 of the constitution which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. #WATCH: US President Donald Trump during bilateral meet with PM Modi at #G7Summit says,"We spoke last night about Kashmir, Prime Minister really feels he has it under control. They speak with Pakistan and I'm sure that they will be able to do something that will be very good." pic.twitter.com/FhydcW4uK1 — ANI (@ANI) August 26, 2019 × It is after a gap of more than ten years that India has been invited at the G7 summit, the last time being 2005 when the then British Prime Minister Tony Blair had invited the then Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at the Gleneagles Summit. India is not a member country of the G-7, and the invitation to participate in the summit was extended by France.

All issues between India, Pak bilateral in nature, says PM Modi while meeting Trump at G7 meeting

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani came out strongly in favour of talks Monday as his top diplomat came under fire from hardline media for a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-foreign-minister-zarif-leaves-g7-talks-unclear-if-progress-made-to-ease-tensions-245637">surprise visit to a G7 summit</a>.

"I believe that for our country's national interests we must use any tool," Rouhani said in a speech aired live on state television.

"And if I knew that I was going to have a meeting with someone that would (lead to) prosperity for my country and people's problems would be resolved, I would not hesitate.

"The main thing is our country's national interests," he said to a round of applause from those gathered at an event marking government achievements in rural areas.

Rouhani's remarks came as his government faced criticism over the visit of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-on-iranian-foreign-minister-mohammad-javad-zarif-239805">Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif</a> to the French seaside resort of Biarritz on Sunday for meetings on the sidelines of the G7 summit.

Zarif was invited to Biarritz by French President Emmanuel Macron, who has been leading efforts to de-escalate tensions between Iran and its arch-enemy the United States.

Watch: Iran FM Javad Zarif makes surprise visit to G7 Summit

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Iran's economy has been battered by US sanctions imposed since last year when President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-looking-for-regime-change-in-iran-says-trump-at-g7-summit-245672">Donald Trump</a> unilaterally withdrew the United States from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal between the Islamic republic and world powers.

The ultra-conservative Kayhan newspaper strongly criticised Zarif's visit on Monday in an article that called the trip "improper".

'Weakness and desperation'

Kayhan said the fact that the minister's visit was the second to France in a matter of days sent "a message of weakness and desperation".

"These improper measures are taken in the fantasy of an opening but it will definitely have no outcome other than more insolence and pressure," it added.

The reformist Etemad newspaper, however, described Zarif's trip to France as "the most hopeful moment" for Iran in the 15 months since the US withdrew from the nuclear deal.

"Given Macron's attempts over the last two months, one can be hopeful that Trump's response to Macron's ideas has been the main reason for Zarif's... trip to Biarritz," it said.

The spike in tensions between Iran and the United States has threatened to spiral out of control in the past few weeks, with ships mysteriously attacked, drones downed and tankers seized.

Rouhani said his government was ready to use "both hands" of power and diplomacy.

"They may seize our ship somewhere... we will both negotiate... and we may seize their ship for legal reasons," he said, referring to an Iranian oil tanker seized off Gibraltar that has since been released and a British-flagged vessel still impounded by Iran in the Gulf.

"We can work with two hands... the hand of power and the hand of diplomacy," said the Iranian president.

"We must use both our power, our military and security power, economic and cultural power and our political power. We must negotiate. We must find solutions. We must reduce problems.

"Even if the probability of success... is 10 per cent, we must endeavour and go ahead. We must not lose opportunities."

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani came out strongly in favour of talks Monday as his top diplomat came under fire from hardline media for a surprise visit to a G7 summit.

Iran's President Hassan Rouhani came out strongly in favour of talks Monday as his top diplomat came under fire from hardline media for a surprise visit to a G7 summit. "I believe that for our country's national interests we must use any tool," Rouhani said in a speech aired live on state television. "And if I knew that I was going to have a meeting with someone that would (lead to) prosperity for my country and people's problems would be resolved, I would not hesitate. "The main thing is our country's national interests," he said to a round of applause from those gathered at an event marking government achievements in rural areas. Rouhani's remarks came as his government faced criticism over the visit of Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif to the French seaside resort of Biarritz on Sunday for meetings on the sidelines of the G7 summit. Zarif was invited to Biarritz by French President Emmanuel Macron, who has been leading efforts to de-escalate tensions between Iran and its arch-enemy the United States. Watch: Iran FM Javad Zarif makes surprise visit to G7 Summit × Iran's economy has been battered by US sanctions imposed since last year when President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew the United States from a landmark 2015 nuclear deal between the Islamic republic and world powers. The ultra-conservative Kayhan newspaper strongly criticised Zarif's visit on Monday in an article that called the trip "improper". 'Weakness and desperation' Kayhan said the fact that the minister's visit was the second to France in a matter of days sent "a message of weakness and desperation". "These improper measures are taken in the fantasy of an opening but it will definitely have no outcome other than more insolence and pressure," it added. The reformist Etemad newspaper, however, described Zarif's trip to France as "the most hopeful moment" for Iran in the 15 months since the US withdrew from the nuclear deal. "Given Macron's attempts over the last two months, one can be hopeful that Trump's response to Macron's ideas has been the main reason for Zarif's... trip to Biarritz," it said. The spike in tensions between Iran and the United States has threatened to spiral out of control in the past few weeks, with ships mysteriously attacked, drones downed and tankers seized. Rouhani said his government was ready to use "both hands" of power and diplomacy. "They may seize our ship somewhere... we will both negotiate... and we may seize their ship for legal reasons," he said, referring to an Iranian oil tanker seized off Gibraltar that has since been released and a British-flagged vessel still impounded by Iran in the Gulf. "We can work with two hands... the hand of power and the hand of diplomacy," said the Iranian president. "We must use both our power, our military and security power, economic and cultural power and our political power. We must negotiate. We must find solutions. We must reduce problems. "Even if the probability of success... is 10 per cent, we must endeavour and go ahead. We must not lose opportunities."

Iran president Hassan Rouhani makes case for talks as G7 gambit slammed

US President Donald Trump said on Monday he wanted to see a strong Iran and was not seeking regime change in Tehran, adding that the way Iranians were being forced to live was unacceptable, reported news agency Reuters.

US President Donald Trump said on Monday he wanted to see a strong Iran and was not seeking regime change in Tehran, adding that the way Iranians were being forced to live was unacceptable, reported news agency Reuters. ''Not looking for regime change in Iran,'' Trump was quoted as saying on the sidelines of G7 summit in Biarritz, France. Talking to reporters at a summit, Trump said he had not been surprised that France had invited Iranian foreign minister Mohammad Javad Zarif for talks on Sunday on the sidelines of the G7 gathering. Trump said that he told the French President Emmanuel Macron to 'go-ahead' on Iran Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif's surprise G7 visit. However, he said that he had not wanted to see Zarif himself, adding that it was 'too soon' for him to meet Iran foreign minister.

Not looking for regime change in Iran, says Trump at G7 summit

Australia will block access to internet domains hosting terrorist material during crisis events and will consider legislation to force digital platforms to improve the safety of their services, officials said on Sunday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-wont-host-us-missiles-prime-minister-says-244144">Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison</a>, who is in France to take part in the G7 leader's forum, said the government intended to prevent extremists from exploiting digital platforms to post extremely violent content.

"We are doing everything we can to deny terrorists the opportunity to glorify their crimes," he said in a statement.

Australia and New Zealand have increased scrutiny of websites and social media companies in the wake of the Christchurch massacre in March when 51 worshippers were killed in attacks on two New Zealand mosques.

The attack was live-streamed by alleged gunman Brenton Tarrant over Facebook.

The government said it would establish a framework to block domains hosting such material.&nbsp;

Australia's eSafety Commissioner would determine on a case-by-case basis what should be censored and was working with industry on arrangements to quickly block access during an attack.

A 24/7 Crisis Coordination Centre would be established to monitor the online world for extreme violence or terrorist material.

The government did not elaborate on what legislative options would be used if digital platforms failed to improve safety.

Tech giants including Facebook, YouTube, Amazon, Microsoft, and Twitter, along with Telstra, Vodafone, TPG, and Optus are expected to provide details to the government by the end of next month on how they will carry out the recommendations.

The firms are all members of the Taskforce to Combat Terrorist and Extreme Violent Material Online, which had recommended a clear framework to be established.

It was not immediately clear how the move would affect media reporting of terror attacks or civil unrest.

Sky News New Zealand was fined NZ$4,000 ($2,560) by New Zealand's Broadcasting Standards Authority earlier this month for showing several edited clips taken from the alleged Christchurch attacker's 17-minute live stream video during its news broadcast.

The regulator said in its judgment that, while the broadcast was newsworthy, the clips contained disturbing violent content which could cause distress, or glorify the alleged attacker and promote his messages.

Australia will block access to internet domains hosting terrorist material during crisis events and will consider legislation to force digital platforms to improve the safety of their services, officials said on Sunday.

Australia will block access to internet domains hosting terrorist material during crisis events and will consider legislation to force digital platforms to improve the safety of their services, officials said on Sunday. Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison, who is in France to take part in the G7 leader's forum, said the government intended to prevent extremists from exploiting digital platforms to post extremely violent content. "We are doing everything we can to deny terrorists the opportunity to glorify their crimes," he said in a statement. Australia and New Zealand have increased scrutiny of websites and social media companies in the wake of the Christchurch massacre in March when 51 worshippers were killed in attacks on two New Zealand mosques. The attack was live-streamed by alleged gunman Brenton Tarrant over Facebook. The government said it would establish a framework to block domains hosting such material. Australia's eSafety Commissioner would determine on a case-by-case basis what should be censored and was working with industry on arrangements to quickly block access during an attack. A 24/7 Crisis Coordination Centre would be established to monitor the online world for extreme violence or terrorist material. The government did not elaborate on what legislative options would be used if digital platforms failed to improve safety. Tech giants including Facebook, YouTube, Amazon, Microsoft, and Twitter, along with Telstra, Vodafone, TPG, and Optus are expected to provide details to the government by the end of next month on how they will carry out the recommendations. The firms are all members of the Taskforce to Combat Terrorist and Extreme Violent Material Online, which had recommended a clear framework to be established. It was not immediately clear how the move would affect media reporting of terror attacks or civil unrest. Sky News New Zealand was fined NZ$4,000 ($2,560) by New Zealand's Broadcasting Standards Authority earlier this month for showing several edited clips taken from the alleged Christchurch attacker's 17-minute live stream video during its news broadcast. The regulator said in its judgment that, while the broadcast was newsworthy, the clips contained disturbing violent content which could cause distress, or glorify the alleged attacker and promote his messages.

Australia to block internet domains hosting extremist content during terror attacks

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