Wed Sep 25 07:58:23 UTC 2024: ## G7 Foreign Ministers Condemn Russian Aggression, Call for Peace in Middle East and Africa
**New York, September 24, 2024** – The G7 Foreign Ministers, meeting in New York during the United Nations General Assembly High-Level Week, issued a joint statement condemning Russia’s “brutal and unjustifiable war of aggression” against Ukraine and reiterating their unwavering support for the Ukrainian people. They also expressed serious concerns about the escalating violence in the Middle East and called for a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
**Support for Ukraine:**
The G7 members condemned Russia’s violations of international law and humanitarian principles, including attacks on civilians and critical infrastructure. They reaffirmed their commitment to providing Ukraine with financial aid, including approximately $50 billion in loans, and assisting in its long-term recovery and reconstruction. The G7 ministers also reiterated their stance on immobilizing Russian sovereign assets until Moscow ends its aggression and compensates for the damage caused. They highlighted their commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s air defense capabilities and holding those responsible for atrocities accountable.
**Middle East Crisis:**
The G7 condemned Hamas’s attacks on Israel, expressing deep concern about the escalating violence and its potential to drag the entire region into a wider conflict. They called for an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages, emphasizing the need for a two-state solution with a secure Israel and a sovereign Palestinian state. The ministers also expressed concerns about Iran’s support for Russia’s war in Ukraine and its nuclear program, urging Tehran to cease destabilizing activities in the region and cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency.
**Partnerships with Africa:**
The G7 reaffirmed its commitment to supporting African nations in their pursuit of sustainable development and economic growth. They highlighted the importance of fair partnerships, built on shared principles, democratic values, and local leadership. They expressed their support for the African Union’s agenda and the African Continental Free Trade Area, while emphasizing the need to strengthen mutually beneficial cooperation. The G7 condemned the activities of the Wagner Group and other Russia-supported entities in Africa, calling for accountability for human rights violations.
**China’s Actions:**
The G7 expressed concerns about China’s support for Russia’s war in Ukraine and its continued militarization in the South China Sea. They urged Beijing to promote international peace and security, to refrain from coercive economic practices, and to respect human rights in Xinjiang, Tibet, and Hong Kong.
**Other Issues:**
The G7 also addressed the situation in Venezuela, urging the release of political prisoners and a transition to democracy. They expressed support for the Haitian government and the Multinational Security Support mission, calling for a UN Peace Operation to maintain security gains in the country. The G7 members voiced concerns about the conflict in Sudan, calling for an immediate ceasefire, humanitarian access, and accountability for human rights violations. They also reiterated their commitment to Libyan stability and called for a UN-facilitated political process towards free and fair elections.
The G7 Foreign Ministers emphasized their commitment to upholding the rule of law, humanitarian principles, and international law, working towards a world where peace and stability prevail. They pledged to continue working with countries and stakeholders within the UN system to address global challenges and reform the multilateral system.
First Piper 