Biden in Japan for G-7 Meeting Amid US Debt Crisis.

Biden Attends G-7 Summit in Japan Amid Debt Ceiling Negotiations

President Joe Biden has arrived in Hiroshima, Japan, to attend the three-day G-7 summit of the world’s top economic powers. The summit will cover a wide range of issues, including the conflict in Ukraine and China’s threats against Taiwan, as well as economic security. Biden’s arrival comes at a challenging time as he faces a potential crisis at home if Congress fails to raise the debt ceiling to avert a default by the so-called “x-date,” which could be reached as early as June.

Confidence in Debt Ceiling Negotiations

Before his departure, Biden expressed confidence that the months-long impasse between the White House and House Republicans over raising the nation’s $31.4 trillion debt ceiling would soon be resolved. “I’m confident that we’ll get the agreement on the budget, that America will not default. And every leader in the room understands the consequences if we fail to pay our bills,” Biden told reporters on May 17.

Busy Agenda for G-7 Leaders

The G-7 leaders will have a busy agenda, according to White House National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan. Supply chains, clean energy, and artificial intelligence will be some of the key topics of discussion. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine will also be a significant topic of conversation, and the leaders will discuss sanctions against Russia and how to shut down evasion networks and close loopholes in sanctions to maximize their impact in the months ahead. The United States will impose sanctions in conjunction with a G-7 statement addressing the issue of enforcement, Sullivan added.

Biden’s Schedule

Biden’s travel schedule has been shortened so he can return to Washington earlier than planned to continue debt ceiling negotiations with House Speaker Kevin McCarthy (R-Calif.). Biden’s side trips to Australia and Papua New Guinea have been postponed. On Friday, the president will attend the summit along with leaders from France, the UK, Germany, Japan, Italy, and Canada.

Bilateral Meeting with Japanese Prime Minister

Biden participated in a bilateral meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio in Hiroshima shortly after his arrival to discuss military and economic cooperation between the two nations. The leaders will continue discussions throughout the summit.

Conclusion

The G-7 summit is an important event for world leaders to come together and discuss pressing issues facing the global community. Biden’s attendance comes at a critical time as he balances negotiations with Congress over the debt ceiling while also engaging in important discussions with other world leaders. The outcome of the summit will have significant implications for the future of international relations and global economic stability.