High-Profile Meeting on Sidelines of G20
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz held a pivotal discussion focused on the crises in
Ukraine and
Gaza during the
G20 summit in Johannesburg. The leaders met amid mounting international pressure to address ongoing conflicts and humanitarian concerns that have disrupted global stability and security[8][10].
Ukraine Conflict and Euro-Atlantic Security
Both Canada and Germany reiterated their united support for Ukraine, emphasizing that the Russian invasion remains a direct threat to the Euro-Atlantic security order.
- The leaders coordinated on diplomatic efforts aimed at silencing weapons in Ukraine.
- Chancellor Merz stressed that Germany and Canada have "stood together since the first day of the Russian invasion of Ukraine."
- Prime Minister Carney highlighted Canada's latest sanctions, and the ongoing commitment to supply defense aid and security guarantees to Ukraine[4][10].
- The possibility of further sanctions against Russian entities was raised in case diplomatic progress remains stalled[4].
Gaza Crisis a Central Concern
The humanitarian situation in Gaza was also high on the leaders’ agenda, reflecting global concern for escalating violence in the region[5][11].
- Chancellor Merz expressed deep concern about developments in Gaza and the need for urgent solutions to end civilian suffering[11].
- The leaders noted that divisions persist among G20 members regarding how to address the crisis, demonstrating the complexity of forging a common diplomatic stance[3][7].
Long-Term Outlook and Security Cooperation
Chancellor Merz, in recent public remarks, acknowledged the likelihood that the war in Ukraine could continue for some time, despite diplomatic efforts[6]. Mental preparedness for an extended conflict was emphasized, with the intention to not lose hope for eventual peace talks.
The summit reinforced Canada and Germany’s commitment to collaborative security, including joint economic and raw materials initiatives, strengthening not only defense but also supply chain resilience[4][10].
Calls for Unity Among G20 Leaders
The talks between Prime Minister Carney and Chancellor Merz were held against the backdrop of broader G20 debates, where language around the Ukraine and Gaza conflicts remains deeply contested[1][3]. The urgency of demonstrating unified leadership among the world’s major economies was echoed by EU and G7 officials in parallel meetings[1].
Diplomacy Focused on Peace and Sanctions
Prime Minister Carney and Chancellor Merz concluded their meeting by affirming the necessity of continued diplomatic engagement, robust support for Ukraine, and action to alleviate the crisis in Gaza. They underscored that the path to lasting peace rests on negotiation paired with measured pressure—through both diplomacy and potential further sanctions.
For ongoing coverage and official statements, visit the
Canadian Prime Minister's office.
