[20070329]RS22403_八国集团首脑会议：演变和可能的改革.pdf

1 This report will use the designation “G8” to refer to the heads of state summits. After Russiawas added to the group in 1997, they were invited to participate in all meetings except financeministerial meetings. “G7” refers to meetings of finance ministers. 2 Penttila, Risto E. J., “The Role of the G8 in International Peace and Security,” Adelphi Papers,vol. 355, May 2003, p. 1.Order Code RS22403Updated March 29, 2007The Group of Eight Summits: Evolution and Possible ReformMartin A. WeissAnalyst in International Trade and FinanceForeign Affairs, Defense, and TradeSummaryThe Group of Eight (G8) summit is a forum to informally discuss and createpolicies on major foreign policy issues among the heads of state of the United States,France, Germany, Canada, Italy, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Russia. The 2007summit will be hosted by Germany and is scheduled to take place in Heilegendamm onJune 6-8, 2007. This report discusses the evolution of the G8 and possible reform asbackground for the meeting. This report will be updated as events warrant.The Group of Eight (G8) is a heads of state forum of the major industrializeddemocracies to informally discuss and create policies on major for