Prime ministers and presidents from the world’s leading democracies will come together in Carbis Bay in June when the UK hosts the G7 Summit.
Carbis Bay beach, on Saturday morning, 16th January 2021
The G7 comprises the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the USA. and the EU. The forum sees leaders of the world’s most influential and open societies, and advanced economies, brought together for close-knit discussions. They will also be joined by the leaders of Australia, India, and South Korea, who will attend as guests.
The leaders’ meeting itself will be held from 11th to 13th June at the Carbis Bay Estate, but additional locations across Cornwall will reap the benefits of hosting the G7. Contingencies are also in place to respond to public health advice and ensure the summit is covid safe.
International delegates will be staying at the Tregenna Castle Resort and other locations in neighbouring St Ives and around Cornwall. Cornwall Airport Newquay and the National Maritime Museum Cornwall, in Falmouth, will also play an official role in the summit, with Falmouth hosting UK and international media.
Visit Cornwall estimates the total economic impact for the region will be £50 million, including through an increase in future tourism. Twenty per cent of Cornwall’s jobs are linked to the tourism industry.
The government says it will work closely with Cornish leaders and institutions to ensure the summit leaves a long-term legacy for the region, reaping the benefits of hosting the G7 for years to come.
The summit is seen as an opportunity to show the crucial role rural areas like Cornwall will play in the decarbonised, digitised world of tomorrow, complementing major cities.
G7 countries already have strong ties to the region, such as mining pioneers who migrated to the US in the 19th century, innovative Japanese pottery in St Ives, and historic connections with Brittany in France.
Prime minister, Boris Johnson, said: “As the most prominent grouping of democratic countries, the G7 has long been the catalyst for decisive international action to tackle the greatest challenges we face.
The perfect location
“From cancelling developing world debt to our universal condemnation of Russia’s annexation of Crimea, the world has looked to the G7 to apply our shared values and diplomatic might to create a more open and prosperous planet.
“Coronavirus is doubtless the most destructive force we have seen for generations, and the greatest test of the modern world order we have experienced. It is only right that we approach the challenge of building back better by uniting with a spirit of openness to create a better future.
“Cornwall is the perfect location for such a crucial summit. Two hundred years ago Cornwall’s tin and copper mines were at the heart of the UK’s industrial revolution, and this summer Cornwall will again be the nucleus of great global change and advancement. I’m very much looking forward to welcoming world leaders to this great region and country.”
Julian German, leader of Cornwall Council said: “On behalf of the residents of Cornwall, I will be delighted to say ‘Welcome to Cornwall — Kernow a’gas dynnergh’ to the world leaders taking part in the G7 Summit in June. I am so proud that Cornwall is being recognised on the world stage.
“Reaching out to others has always been Cornwall’s strength — both historically, when we shared our mining expertise across the world, and today, as pioneers of deep space communication at Goonhilly satellite earth station and developing the capability for horizontal satellite launch through Spaceport Cornwall.
“We are already renowned for our hospitality and over four and a half million visitors every year experience our unique culture, enjoy the breathtaking landscapes, as well as the high quality artisan food and drink we are so proud of. We are keen that this summit showcases the Cornwall we all know and love and, more importantly, leaves a lasting economic legacy that benefits every community.”
Malcolm Bell, chief executive of Visit Cornwall, added: “Cornwall has been voted the best holiday region in the UK for ten out of the last 11 years in the British Travel Awards, but it is a hidden gem to so many potential visitors from outside the UK. The G7 Leaders’ summit will focus the world’s press and TV on this very special place and this exposure is promotion we could never buy.
“It will not only showcase the beauty of Cornwall, but give us the opportunity to communicate our heritage, culture, and the connections to each country, which will help drive growth in international visitors over the next decade.”
