PRIME Minister Boris Johnson has been speaking to his cabinet today about the forthcoming G7 summit which is to be held in Cornwall.
Speaking about his reasons for choosing Carbis Bay to host the event, he said that Cornwall summed up the two ambitions of the UK during its presidency of the G7 – to build back better and greener from the coronavirus pandemic.
He said that the renewable energy and conservation projects already happening in Cornwall point the way to a greener future – and that the Newquay Spaceport and Goonhilly Space Station showcase the best in British technology.
“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. 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.
“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.”
Leader of Cornwall Council Julian German says that he will be delighted, on behalf of the residents of Cornwall, to say “Kernow a’gas dynnergh – Welcome to Cornwall,” 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 keen that this summit showcases the Cornwall we all know and love and more importantly, leaves a lasting economic legacy that benefits every community.”
The Conservative Group on Cornwall Council has also welcomed the announcement that Cornwall will be hosting the prestigious G7 Summit.
As the presidency holder, the UK will direct the agenda for the G7 in 2021, and the group has an opportunity to lead the global recovery from coronavirus: protecting peoples’ health, creating quality jobs and tackling climate change.
Commenting, Conservative Group Leader and Cornwall Councillor for Lelant and Carbis Bay Linda Taylor said:“What an incredible announcement from our Prime Minister and I am delighted to see that he has recognised what Cornwall has to offer by confirming the G7 Summit will be held in our Duchy.”
“This will be an incredible opportunity to show the world all the wonderful things that Cornwall has to offer as we look to come out of his awful pandemic that has blighted our lives over the past year.”
“Putting Cornwall at the forefront of the global recovery effort and at the centre of this Conservative Government’s levelling up agenda by showcasing us on the global stage.”
“We look forward to working locally and at County Hall to ensure we do our bit in making this a success.”