G7 countries increase pressure on China

The Group of Major Democracies (G-7) agreed on a tougher stance on China. Risks in Chinese businesses and supply chains must be reduced. Investments in the People’s Republic of China should also be better pre-screened to protect critical technologies. These key points of a new strategy for dealing with China emerged Saturday at the Group of Seven summit in Hiroshima, Japan.

In a joint statement, the G7 wanted to oppose “economic coercion” targeting China. The G7 countries are concerned that China often uses its economic influence in political disputes and exerts pressure on other countries.

An EU diplomat saw a new realism among the G7: “There is no naivety.” There should have been more caution in supporting China’s development over the past two decades through critical supply chains. There is an agreement among the G7 countries to reduce dependency.

no separation

“We want to reduce the risk of not being disconnected,” said Jake Sullivan, the US President’s National Security Adviser to Jake Sullivan. Although in the run-up to the summit there were certainly disagreements about the correct course of action—between European countries and with the United States of America—Sullivan saw unity in the G-7. However, it is recognized that each country maintains its own special relationship with the People’s Republic. He described the forthcoming statement as “non-hostile”: “It is only direct and frank.”

Despite all the differences with China, the G7 countries affirm their interest in stable and constructive relations. The European official said China should be included and allowed to participate in global challenges. The G7 countries want to work with China on issues such as climate change, preparing for future pandemics, financial stability, and nuclear non-proliferation.