The transport ministers from the Group of Seven (G7) nations recently met at Ise-Shima, Mie, Japan, where they discussed issues in the transportation sector and went over collaborative approaches for moving forward.
“A lot of productive conversations happening at this year's G7 Transport meeting in Ise-Shima, Japan,” U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg said on his Twitter page, which included a video of him discussing the meeting. “From Day One of this administration, @POTUS has worked to repair global alliances and restore America’s leadership on our most important shared challenges.”
The G7 transport ministers released a declaration at the conference, which was held June 16-18. The meeting focused on the importance of creating accessible, sustainable, resilient, efficient and equitable transportation systems and supply chains. They acknowledged the need for innovative strategies and increased cooperation to achieve the objectives while also prioritizing safety.
“Transportation systems and supply chain infrastructure are fundamental to supporting sustainable economic growth, prosperity and employment, and contribute to social well-being by providing access to economic opportunities and essential services," the declaration said. “They also promote mobility and connect people, cultures and ideas."
The ministers pointed toward the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia's aggression against Ukraine, both of which have disrupted transportation systems and supply chains. They expressed solidarity with Ukraine and condemned Russia's aggression, as it has caused challenges to aspects such as international connectivity, global transportation, supply chains and food security.
The G7 transport ministers also stressed the importance of maintaining a peaceful and open Indo-Pacific region. They discussed the barriers faced by various groups in accessing transportation, including rural residents, the elderly, people with disabilities, people in low-income households, indigenous communities and other marginalized populations.
Additionally, the ministers stressed gender equity and equality in the transportation sector while promoting safe and affordable transportation options for women. They focused on awareness about using transportation systems for human trafficking, notably of women and girls.
The ministers further touched on human-induced climate change’s adverse impacts and committed to reducing transportation emissions in line with the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. That goal will involve collaboration with the public and private sectors as well as the utilization of innovative policies and digital technologies.
They also discussed making efforts to strengthen supply chain resilience and establishing the G7 Transport Working Group on Transportation Supply Chains.
Sustainable transportation initiatives were also discussed, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and the transition toward decarbonization. The ministers acknowledged the significance of decarbonizing international aviation and shipping, and also improving the affordability and accessibility of transportation services. They encouraged the use of energy-efficient transportation like railways and public transport as well.
