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G8 leaders to discuss world problems

06/07/2008

Heads of state of the world's most industrialised countries are meeting in Japan today with problems in the global economy high on the agenda.

Besides issues such as soaring commodity prices and food shortages, the political situation in Zimbabwe and global warming will also be discussed.

In a statement, Japanese prime minister Yasuo Fukuda said: "The participants this year will discuss global issues, including the immediate dangers posed by the soaring prices of crude oil and foodstuffs as well as climate change.

"They will also discuss international assistance to African development and the dual threats to world peace posed by the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction and terrorism," he added.

Over 20,000 police have been deployed near the secluded resort where meetings are set to take place to deal with protests targeting the conference.

Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia and the United States form the G8. In addition to them, leaders from China, India and South Africa will also be present at the meeting.