Johannesburg, South Africa – November 22, 2025 – On the sidelines of the ongoing G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney and French President Emmanuel Macron held a high-level discussion addressing key international crises, including the war in Ukraine and the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The Canadian government confirmed that the meeting focused on reaffirming support for Ukraine, advancing peace efforts, and promoting stability in Gaza.

During the discussion, the leaders emphasized that any resolution to the conflict in Ukraine must involve Kyiv directly, respect the country’s sovereignty and core national interests, and ensure comprehensive security guarantees. Prime Minister Carney reaffirmed Canada’s commitment to working alongside international allies to achieve a “just and lasting peace” in Ukraine, signaling continued diplomatic and strategic engagement on the crisis.

In addition to Ukraine, Carney and Macron highlighted the urgent need for stabilization and humanitarian aid in Gaza. Both leaders stressed the importance of accelerating reconstruction efforts to address the ongoing humanitarian challenges, which have left thousands in critical need of support. The discussion underlined the international community’s responsibility to assist affected populations while pursuing long-term stability in the region.

The bilateral meeting also included discussions on broader economic and strategic cooperation, particularly as Canada concludes its presidency of the Group of Seven (G7) and France prepares to assume the role. Both leaders expressed a mutual interest in deepening bilateral ties, with a focus on areas including energy, defence, aerospace, technology, and critical minerals. Strengthening cooperation in these sectors reflects a shared vision for economic growth, security collaboration, and innovation between Canada and France.

A Canadian government statement emphasized that Prime Minister Carney and President Macron agreed to remain in close contact and directed their respective officials to accelerate progress on the priorities discussed during the summit. The meeting represents a continuation of ongoing diplomatic engagement between the two countries, reinforcing their commitment to addressing pressing international challenges collaboratively.

The discussions at the G20 Summit also reflect a broader global context in which major world leaders are navigating overlapping crises. From conflict resolution and humanitarian relief to economic recovery and strategic alliances, the summit provides a platform for leaders to engage in multilateral diplomacy aimed at fostering international stability and cooperation.

The G20 Leaders’ Summit, hosted this year at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg, South Africa, continues to bring together heads of state, ministers, and senior officials from the world’s largest economies to discuss pressing global issues, including geopolitical conflicts, economic recovery, and sustainable development.

Prime Minister Carney and President Macron’s discussions underscore the importance of collaborative leadership, strategic partnerships, and international solidarity in addressing both long-standing and emerging global challenges.