Global response
ICC’s debut at B7 Summit to drive a new course for global cooperation
The International Chamber of Commerce, the institutional representative of over 45 million companies in more than 170 countries, participated for the first time in the Business Federations of the Group of Seven (B7) Summit taking place in Rome on 17 May. The B7 is the official platform for the international business community to support the work of the G7, the most significant inter-governmental forum for the world's major advanced economies.
ICC Secretary General John W.H. Denton AO took part in a panel session “Beyond Borders: Charting a New Course for Global Cooperation” to discuss the private sector’s role in conflict-affected areas and the role of ICC as a bridge between advanced economies and the Global South in today’s global challenges.
“As business, we have an imperative to think more broadly about the platforms we engage in – and, specifically, to place greater emphasis on establishing a constructive dialogue with key emerging market forums so that they continue to engage on global policy issues.”
John W.H. Denton AO , ICC Secretary General.
Mr Denton also spoke about ways to chart a new course for global cooperation providing his views on how to mobilise the international business community in support of reconstruction efforts and local private sector development in zones of conflict.
He also spotlighted the unique role of ICC with a presence spanning over 170 countries with 70% of members in the Global South.
In an interview with CNBC Italy, Mr Denton stressed the need for G7 leaders to restore faith in the multilateral trading system as a way to build trust with the Global South that in turn, could result in enhanced collaboration on global issues, including the climate crisis.
As part of ICC’s role in global discussions and decision making, Mr Denton also participated in a series of bilateral meetings with key business, chamber and government representatives in Rome.
ICC is also a B20 Network Partner for the B20 Brazil 2024, the business platform to support the work of the G20 with a longstanding pivotal role in driving business priorities.