1. What is the G8? The G8’s membership comprises the main industrialised countries. It is not an international organisation, nor does it have an administrative staff with a permanent secretariat; it is rather a process that culminates in an annual Summit at which the Heads of State and Government of the member countries hold talks with a view to finding solutions to the main world issues, which are summed up in the “Final Statement.”
2. When is the G8 Summit to be held? From 8 to 10 July 2009.
3.Where is the G8 Summit to be held? The 2009 G8 Summit is to be held in Italy, in the city of L'Aquila.
4. When was the first Summit held? The group’s first meeting was held in Rambouillet, France, in 1975, at the invitation of then President Valéry Giscard d’Estaing. Prime Minister Aldo Moro attended on Italy’s behalf.
5. When was the first Italian Summit held? On 22 and 23 June 1980, in Venice. Amintore Fanfani was prime minister at the time.
6. Which countries are members of the G8? The G8’s members are Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States. The European Commission attends as well.
7. What is the G8 Presidency’s job? The G8 Presidency works to define the topics to be placed on the agenda and the priorities for action, and to identify the fresh goals and sectors of intervention. It also holds responsibility for hosting and organising the preparatory meetings needed to lead up to the Summit, at which the Heads of State and Government will be meeting. Last but not least, the Presidency holds responsibility for speaking on behalf of the G8 and for holding talks with other countries, international organisations and civil society.
8. In what order does the Presidency rotate? The Presidency rotates in the following order: France, United States, United Kingdom, Russia, Germany, Japan, Italy and Canada. The European Union – via the European Commission – attends the G8, but neither chairs nor hosts the G8 Summit.