G8 focus on Arab revolts

Final preparations are being made for the G8 world leaders’ meeting today in the French coastal resort of Deauville.

The people’s revolts which have swept the Middle East and North Africa are expected to dominate the summit. Yet, while looking at aid for democracy, the heads of the eight leading economies will be mindful of their voters’ opinions back home.

euronews correspondent José Miguel Sardo said: “More than the economy, diplomacy will dominate the debates here over the next two days. The leaders in Deauville, by honouring the revolutions in Arab countries and providing democratic aid in Africa, will increase pressure on Libya and Syria.”

While sceptics insist that the G8 can not keep making new promises without delivering on old ones, more evidence of diplomatic gestures lies in the invitation to 10 African nations to attend the summit.

G8 researcher Ashley Pereira said: “G8 members have made a very good effort to bring in the African countries that aren’t members. They are trying to involve them, to welcome them into the dialogue.”

Anti-G8 demonstrators said it is even more difficult than usual for them to get close to the summit. Some 12,000 police have been deployed, all but blocking off Deauville from the general public.

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