Global crises create a crowded agenda as the curtain lifts on G7 summit in Italy

Mood is downbeat as leaders face daunting tasks and power struggles at home

Italian prime minister Giorgia Meloni. Photo: Alberto Lingria

Crispian Balmer

Group of Seven (G7) leaders are in southern Italy this week for their annual summit in downbeat mood, confronting myriad woes at home even as they seek solutions for many of the world’s most pressing problems.

US President Joe Biden faces a polarised electorate and dismal approval ratings ahead of a re-election bid in November, while British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak looks certain to lose power in a national vote next month.