During its G7 Presidency in 2024, Italy will prioritize resolving conflicts in Eastern Europe and the Middle East. (Source: Agenzia Nova)

Reuters on January 23 quoted a source familiar with the agenda of the Group of Seven (G7) leading industrialized countries during Italy's presidency in 2024, saying that Rome prioritizes increasing support for Ukraine, resolving conflicts in the Middle East, food security, climate change, development in Africa, cooperation with China and artificial intelligence (AI).

The West's resolve to support Kiev appears to have faltered in recent months, amid political wrangling in the US and the European Union (EU) that has delayed arms and financial aid.

However, the source confirmed that G7 leaders were determined to maintain their commitment to Kiev and assessed that Russian President Vladimir Putin had lost much of his financial, military and diplomatic influence since launching the military campaign in Ukraine.

Italy is planning to host 20 ministerial meetings during its rotating G7 presidency, starting with a three-day meeting (March 13-15) on industry, technology and digitalization.

In addition, the group also agreed on most of the major issues facing it, including how to deal with China.

The sides agreed to avoid raising tensions with Beijing, as well as develop economies in Africa and prevent illegal immigration.