Along with the spread of the Internet and digitization, traditional economic activities are undergoing a revolution, such as the rapid advancement of digital transformation, which fundamentally changes everything. On the other hand, while the impact of the recent novel coronavirus remains, the global economy has been seriously affected by Russia's aggression against Ukraine. Amidst these age-making changes, we, the G7, are required to take the lead in tackling various issues in the digital field.

In this meeting, the G7 ministers in charge of digital policy will gather in one place and discuss the following political agendas for solving these issues and to leverage innovation for social and economic development. I believe that these kinds of discussions are of great significance because we are entering a period of great change toward a digital society.

• Secure and Resilient Digital Infrastructure
• Internet Governance
• Promotion of Responsible AI and Global AI Governance
• Facilitation of Cross-Border Data Flow
• Digital Competition
• Emerging and Disruptive Technologies in Innovating Society and Economy

Under Secure and Resilient Digital Infrastructure, we will discuss a future vision for multilayered networks in the era of "Beyond 5G" and measures to support the Global South.

Under Internet Governance, we will discuss issues such as Internet shutdowns and false information and misinformation, and discuss the development of the Internet in a way that protects democratic values, with a view to the IGF2023 conference to be held in Kyoto City in October of this year.

In addition, under Promotion of Responsible AI and Global AI Governance, we will discuss the promotion of interoperability for AI governance, which varies by country and region, and support for the participation of various private entities, such as corporations, in the formulation of international technology standards.

At the meeting venue, G Messe Gunma, Japan's digital technology will be exhibited in parallel with the ministerial meeting.

I hope that all participants will be able to see Japan's world-class technologies, promote the international expansion and collaboration of Japan's ICT services, and further invigorate the Conference.

Gunma Prefecture, the host of the event, is full of lush greenery and has about 100 hot spring resorts, making it one of Japan's most famous hot spring prefectures.

I hope that the ministers of the G7 countries visiting Japan will enjoy this wonderful environment and hold meaningful discussions.

The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications will make every effort to make “the G7 Digital and Tech Ministers’ Meeting in Takasaki, Gunma” a success.

We look forward to your understanding and cooperation in this regard.