Germany Joins G7 Leaders at France Summit Amid Global Trade Tensions
Chancellor Friedrich Merz represented Germany at the G7 summit in Évian, France from June 15-17, where leaders discussed international security, economic stability, and trade tensions under the Trump administration.
The G7 summit took place in Évian-les-Bains, France from June 15-17, 2026, with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz attending his first G7 summit since taking office. Leaders discussed topics ranging from international peace and security to global economic stability, growth, and emerging technologies.
Key Issues on the Agenda
The summit came amid Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine and the Middle East conflict. Trade and economic growth featured prominently on the agenda, following Trump's imposition of broad tariffs on every G7 member last year, and new June threats of 10-12.5 percent tariffs on 60 trading partners including the EU over alleged forced labour failures.
Besides G7 leaders, French President Emmanuel Macron invited heads of state from non-G7 countries including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. Leaders adopted statements on mutually beneficial international partnerships and a coordinated response to the Bundibugyo Ebola outbreak.
What This Means for Foreigners in Germany
The G7's discussions on trade policy and tariffs could have direct implications for Germany's export-oriented economy, which in turn affects job security and economic conditions for expats working in manufacturing, technology, and trade-related sectors. The summit's focus on international cooperation also signals Germany's continued engagement in global diplomacy despite domestic economic challenges.
