[Title] Video Message by Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio Toward a Successful G7 Hiroshima Summit

In 2023, Japan assumes the G7 Presidency. Throughout the year, more than 10 Ministerial Meetings will take place in Japan, from Sapporo in the north to Miyazaki in the south, attended by many government officials, the media, and others from around the world.

From May 19 to 21, the G7 Summit will be held in Hiroshima, my hometown. Hiroshima is a beautiful city surrounded by the lush green Chugoku Mountains, facing the calm Seto Inland Sea. I truly look forward to welcoming the G7 Leaders to Hiroshima. At the same time, as the world's attention turns to Japan this year, it will be a great opportunity to show the world the charms of our country, from beautiful landscapes, traditional culture and local foods to cutting-edge technology.

Having experienced the COVID-19 pandemic and being faced with Russia's aggression against Ukraine, which shook the very foundation of the international order, the international community is now at a historic turning point. The G7 firmly rejects any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force or the threat or use of nuclear weapons and upholds the international order based on the rule of law. I will lead the discussion as Chair and demonstrate the G7's strong determination to the world with historical significance.

There are mounting challenges facing the international community, such as the global economy including energy and food security, regional affairs including Ukraine and the Indo-Pacific, nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, economic security, and global issues including climate change, global health, and development. As Chair, I will facilitate candid discussions among the G7 Leaders to articulate ideas and plans for the future.

The year of the G7 Presidency will also serve as a valuable opportunity for the next generation and beyond, the youth and children, to turn their attention to global issues and take action. We will provide various opportunities to deepen exchanges, learn together, and experience the Summit for those who will be at the helm of tomorrow's Japan and world.

With the cooperation of everyone in Japan, including the host cities and prefectures, I wish to foster the momentum of the G7 Presidency year. Let us work together toward the success of the Summit and Ministerial Meetings as well as toward a bright future for Japan and the world.