Carney Eyes New Global Order at G7 Summit in France

Carney Outlines Vision for Shared Global Standards

Prime Minister Mark Carney described the potential for a new world order taking shape during remarks at Trinity College Dublin. Speaking on the final day of a six-day European trip, Carney pointed to the upcoming G7 summit as a venue where key strands of international cooperation could be strengthened.

The comments come as leaders prepare to gather in Évian-les-Bains, France. Carney stressed that rapid developments in technology and security require coordinated responses across borders, particularly in areas where regulation remains limited.

AI Regulation Emerges as Central Summit Priority

Carney highlighted artificial intelligence as one area moving quickly and currently lacking comprehensive oversight. He noted risks related to child safety and potential systemic cyber attacks, calling for common standards among like-minded nations.

“The importance of sharing the defences, having common standards, not releasing models that have that power before others are ready, that is an imperative,” Carney stated. He expressed certainty that these issues would feature in discussions at the G7.

Canada’s approach aligns with this emphasis through recent legislative steps. The Liberal government introduced Bill C-34 this week, which would require social media platforms to restrict access for users under 16 while allowing exemptions where adequate safeguards exist. The bill also addresses AI chatbots by imposing duties to act responsibly, including steps to reduce harmful content and protocols for situations involving self-harm, suicide or violence.

France Sets Broad Agenda for G7 Discussions

The French G7 presidency has identified several priorities for the meeting, including efforts to address major geopolitical crises, continued support for Ukraine, measures against crime, and stronger online protections for children. French lawmakers have already approved legislation banning social media use for those under 15.

Canadian officials expect the summit to produce targeted statements on specific issues rather than one overarching final communiqué. This format would allow focused outcomes on pressing topics without requiring full consensus across all areas.

Broader Participation Brings New Perspectives

The Évian-les-Bains gathering will extend beyond traditional G7 members. Representatives from Gulf states, Kenya, Brazil, Egypt and India are scheduled to participate, providing additional viewpoints on global challenges.

Carney noted that these inclusions reflect the need for wider engagement as issues such as technology governance and economic stability affect regions differently. The expanded format builds on previous efforts to connect G7 discussions with voices from the Global South and other emerging economies.

Global Economic Imbalances and China’s Role

Reports from the International Monetary Fund and France’s G7 presidency have flagged worsening macroeconomic imbalances that cannot be resolved without greater involvement from China. Leaders are expected to examine industrial overcapacity and its effects on world markets during the summit.

These economic conversations carry direct relevance for Canada, where trade relationships and supply chain stability remain central to federal policy. Discussions may touch on how coordinated approaches among G7 partners could influence broader international economic frameworks.

Meetings and Uncertainties Around Bilateral Engagements

Carney is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with several world leaders during the summit. It remains unclear whether a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump will take place.

Such encounters often provide opportunities to advance Canadian priorities on trade, security and regulatory cooperation. The absence of a confirmed session would not prevent progress on multilateral files, though it could limit direct dialogue on certain bilateral matters.

Canadian Context and Practical Implications

Canada’s participation in the G7 reflects longstanding commitments to multilateralism and rules-based international order. The introduction of Bill C-34 demonstrates how domestic legislation can complement international discussions on online safety and emerging technologies.

Provincial and territorial governments will monitor outcomes related to child protection and AI governance, given their roles in education and health services. Any resulting standards could influence regulatory approaches across jurisdictions.

Public safety considerations, including measures against cyber threats, also connect to federal responsibilities managed through agencies such as the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and Public Safety Canada. Coordinated G7 positions could support more effective information sharing on these fronts.

The summit’s focus on Ukraine support aligns with Canada’s continued contributions through military assistance, sanctions coordination and humanitarian efforts. Discussions may explore ways to sustain long-term backing amid evolving conditions on the ground.

Overall, the Évian-les-Bains meeting offers Canada an opportunity to advance measured, evidence-based positions on technology, security and economic stability while engaging a wider group of partners.

Tags: G7 summit, Mark Carney, AI regulation, Bill C-34, online safety legislation, Ukraine, global economy, child protection, Évian-les-Bains, Canadian foreign policy