Cornwall is to host the meeting of world leaders in the annual G7 meeting of seven of the largest economies. It will be a landmark first meeting between prime ministers and presidents since the start of the global coronavirus pandemic. Newly elected Joe Biden will be making his first overseas visit.
The Prime Minister Boris Johnson has spoken of the upcoming event, describing it as “a crucial summit”. He added “Cornwall is the perfect location for such a crucial summit. Two hundred years ago Cornwall’s tin and copper mines were at the heart of the UK’s industrial revolution and this summer Cornwall will again be the nucleus of great global change and advancement. I’m very much looking forward to welcoming world leaders to this great region and country.”
Malcolm Bell, chief executive of Visit Cornwall, said: “Cornwall has been voted the best holiday region in the UK for 10 out of the last 11 years in the British Travel Award, but it is a hidden gem to so many potential visitors from outside the UK.”
Kim Conchie, chief executive of Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, is delighted by the news and believes it makes logical sense.
“It’s amazing news and yet I’m not surprised – there’s no reason why it shouldn’t come to Cornwall. We are the sort of economy that the 21st century should look to for producing renewable energy, digital businesses, top quality food and drink producers and all things environmental,” he said.
Estimates of a total economic impact of the Summit for the county of £50m have been calculated including both the immediate benefits of the Summit and related events, and projected tourism growth over the following five years.
The exposure generated will raise the profile of Cornwall as an international destination. Already popular in German speaking markets and a growing number from the United States due to the popularity of Poldark and Doc Martin TV series. Organisations across Cornwall have welcomed the announcement, pledging the event will leave a lasting social and economic legacy to benefit all of the county and promote Brand Cornwall
