The G7 – which is made up of the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the USA and the EU – is the only forum where leaders of the world’s most influential and open societies and advanced economies are brought together for close-knit discussions.

They will also be joined by the leaders of Australia, India and South Korea, who will attend as guests.

The leaders’ meeting itself will be held on June 11 to 13 at the Carbis Bay Estate, but the Government has said additional locations across the whole of Cornwall will reap the benefits of hosting the G7.

International delegates will also be staying at the Tregenna Castle Resort and other locations in neighbouring St Ives and around Cornwall.

Cornwall Airport Newquay and the National Maritime Museum Cornwall in Falmouth will also play an official role in the Summit, with Falmouth hosting UK and international media.

Visit Cornwall estimates the total economic impact for the region will be £50 million, including through an increase in future tourism. Already, 20 per cent of Cornwall’s jobs are already linked to the tourism industry.

The Government has also vowed to work closely with Cornish leaders and institutions “to ensure the Summit leaves a long term legacy for the region, reaping the benefits of hosting the G7 for years to come.”

Julian German, leader of Cornwall Council said: “On behalf of the residents of Cornwall, I will be delighted to say ‘Welcome to Cornwall – Kernow a’gas dynnergh’ to the world leaders taking part in the G7 Summit in June. I am so proud that Cornwall is being recognised on the world stage.

“Reaching out to others has always been Cornwall’s strength – both historically when we shared our mining expertise across the world and today, as pioneers of deep space communication at Goonhilly Satellite Earth Station and developing the capability for horizontal satellite launch through Spaceport Cornwall.

 

“We are already renowned for our hospitality and over four and a half million visitors every year experience our unique culture, enjoy the breathtaking landscapes as well as the high quality artisan food and drink we are so proud of. We are keen that this summit showcases the Cornwall we all know and love and more importantly, leaves a lasting economic legacy that benefits every community.”

Describing Cornwall as “a powerhouse for green innovation,” the Government said the Duchy was an ideal location for global discussions on recovering from the coronavirus crisis.

The Summit is an opportunity to show the “crucial role” that rural areas like Cornwall will play in the decarbonised, digitised world of tomorrow, complementing major cities, it added.

G7 countries already have strong ties to the region, including mining pioneers who migrated to the US in the 19th Century, innovative Japanese pottery in St Ives, and historic connections with Brittany in France.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “As the most prominent grouping of democratic countries, the G7 has long been the catalyst for decisive international action to tackle the greatest challenges we face. From cancelling developing world debt to our universal condemnation of Russia’s annexation of Crimea, the world has looked to the G7 to apply our shared values and diplomatic might to create a more open and prosperous planet.

“Coronavirus is doubtless the most destructive force we have seen for generations and the greatest test of the modern world order we have experienced. It is only right that we approach the challenge of building back better by uniting with a spirit of openness to create a better future.

“Cornwall is the perfect location for such a crucial summit. Two hundred years ago Cornwall’s tin and copper mines were at the heart of the UK’s industrial revolution and this summer Cornwall will again be the nucleus of great global change and advancement. I’m very much looking forward to welcoming world leaders to this great region and country.”

Further details around plans for the Summit will be announced in due course. The Government is working closely with Cornwall Council, Devon and Cornwall Police, Members of Parliament and other local stakeholders to ensure the smooth running of the event.

Chief Constable Shaun Sawyer of Devon & Cornwall Police said his officers were excited to be playing their part and had already been preparing for this event for several months, adding: “The event will be a real boost for our communities and especially our young people. It provides an opportunity for all my colleagues within Devon and Cornwall Police to demonstrate our operational excellence and world class policing skills on a global stage.”

Contingency planning is also underway depending on Covid-19 restrictions and the need for social distancing and international travel restrictions.

Malcolm Bell, chief executive of Visit Cornwall, described Cornwall as a “hidden gem to so many potential visitors from outside the UK”, adding: “The G7 Leaders’ summit will focus the world’s press and TV on this very special place and this exposure is promotion we could never buy.

“It will not only showcase the beauty of Cornwall but give us the opportunity to communicate our heritage, culture and the connections to each country which will help drive growth in international visitors over the next decade.”

OFFICIAL G7 WEBSITE 

Source: https://www.falmouthpacket.co.uk/news/19016533.cornwall-host-g7-summit-june-2020-details/