Carney & Macron Convene at G20: Urgent Talks on Ukraine, Gaza, and Future G7 Leadership
On November 22, 2025, amidst the bustling backdrop of the G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, a significant meeting took place between Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and French President Emmanuel Macron. Their discussions centered on critical global challenges, most notably the protracted conflict in Ukraine and the deepening humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Unwavering Support for Ukraine and Path to Peace
During their high-level exchange, both leaders firmly reiterated their steadfast commitment to Ukraine. They collectively asserted that any viable and enduring settlement to the conflict must be forged with the direct involvement of Kyiv, respect Ukraine’s core national interests, and incorporate robust security guarantees. Prime Minister Carney underscored Canada's dedication to working collaboratively with its allies to achieve what he termed a "just and lasting peace" in the embattled nation.
Addressing the Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The conversation also extended to the pressing situation in Gaza. Both Carney and Macron emphasized the critical need to restore stability to the region and accelerate ongoing reconstruction efforts. This urgency stems from the imperative to effectively address and mitigate the profound humanitarian crisis currently affecting the population.
G7 Transitions and Enhanced Bilateral Ties
Further topics included the leadership transition within the Group of Seven (G7) advanced economies. As Canada prepares to conclude its presidency, France is poised to assume the influential role. This transition was a key point of discussion.
Significantly, Canada expressed a strong desire to elevate its relationship with France, seeking "more cooperation and new partnerships." These strategic alliances are envisioned across a spectrum of vital sectors, including energy, defence, aerospace, technology, and critical minerals. The leaders concluded their meeting by committing to maintain close contact and instructing their respective officials to expedite progress on the array of priorities deliberated during their impactful engagement.