The G7 Summit, hosted this year by Canada, brings together leaders from major economic powers such as the US, France, and Japan. However, the exclusion of China, India, and Russia undermines the group’s effectiveness in addressing global issues. This absence casts a shadow over the G7’s capacity to provide holistic solutions.
The G7 was formed in 1975 and has evolved over time. It focuses on critical areas such as economic management and international security. However, the limited representation of the global population remains a core issue. The G7 represents less than 10% of the world’s population, in contrast to the combined 35% represented by China and India alone.
Economically, the G7 accounts for less than half of the global GDP. China and India, as leading economic forces, contribute significantly to the global economic landscape. Debt-to-GDP ratios also tell a story of fiscal health. The integration of China, India, and Russia would significantly reshape economic dynamics, impacting global policies.
Militarily, the G7 omits some of the world’s leading military powers. The inclusion of China, India, and Russia would shift the balance of power, impacting military spending, personnel, and technological capabilities. Additionally, including these nuclear-powered states emphasizes the need for a more comprehensive forum.
The idea of a G10, incorporating China, India, and Russia, holds considerable promise. Such a move would amplify the group’s economic weight, increasing its share of global GDP and significantly raising its population representation. This expansion could foster a more balanced decision-making environment. While support for Russia and China’s inclusion has been mentioned, the silence on India’s involvement suggests a strategic lapse, posing potential risks to the group’s enduring relevance in a changing world order.