China has been highly critical of the countries that make up the G7: “Gone are the days of small groups of countries dictating global decisions.” This came in response to the announcement by the G7 countries to form a bloc against China, including through a major infrastructure project to support developing countries.
Since 2013, China has been implementing all kinds of infrastructure projects all over the world, such as in Africa where ports and railways are being built. This plan is called the New Silk Road. This means that China is buying influence mainly in countries that are often rich in raw materials. The G7 now wants to counter that, although the details of the plan are not yet known.
Nevertheless, China replied succinctly: “We believe that nations, big or small, strong or weak, poor or rich, are equal and that matters relating to the world should be dealt with through consultation with all nations.”
Today is the conclusion of the G7 summit in Cornwall, which will bring together seven major industrialized nations (the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy and Japan). It is expected that China’s actions will be mentioned again in the closing statement. US President Joe Biden also wants a joint statement against China’s treatment of Uyghurs and other minorities in China.
