West Cornwall's MP Derek Thomas has spoken of his pride at being able to host prime ministers and presidents from the world’s leading democracies in his constituency this summer.

It follows the announcement over the weekend that this year's G7 Summit will be taking place in Carbis Bay in June, with climate change and recovery from Covid the two big topics up for discussion.

The 'Group of Seven', better known as the G7 – made up of the UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the USA and the EU – will also be joined by the leaders of Australia, India and South Korea, who will attend as guests.

READ NEXT: 

Mr Thomas described the news that such a prestigious event would be taking place in West Cornwall as "amazing," telling the Packet: "Not many MPs can claim to host the G7. It settles the argument that I represent the most beautiful and sought-after part of the country!"

He said he was keen now that Cornwall saw benefits from hosting, and "how we can be part of something that's not just national but global."

Mr Thomas acknowledged that would be inevitably be some disruption for local people during the time of the Summit, but added: "I hope it's seen as a really important recognition of the importance of Cornwall and we can be part of the national and international narrative."

He said he was pushing for local businesses to be used in every way possible, such as local food suppliers, so "we can really show off what Cornwall does well."

The leaders’ meeting itself will be held from June 11 to 13 at the Carbis Bay Estate, with international delegates will staying at the Tregenna Castle Resort and other locations in neighbouring St Ives and around Cornwall.

Cornwall Airport Newquay and the National Maritime Museum Cornwall in Falmouth will also play an official role in the Summit with Falmouth hosting UK and international media.

Visit Cornwall estimates the total economic impact for the region will be £50 million, including through an increase in future tourism.

Mr Thomas said the leaders would be given "the warmest of welcomes," adding that he particularly pleased that the Government has committed to working closely with Cornish leaders and institutions to ensure that Cornwall reaps the benefits of hosting the G7 for years to come.

“I said in my first ever election address that ‘we must not accept being the end of the line – we can be the start of something good!' I still believe this and we must not miss the opportunity to leave a lasting legacy for West Cornwall,” said Mr Thomas.

“In a year of recovery from Covid and a focus on how the world will cut harmful emissions – COP26 is also in Britain this year – we could not have a better time to host the world’s leaders for the G7 Summit.

“Cornwall is already a leading player in green innovation and this summit will enable us to show how rural areas can play a key role in creating a decarbonised, digitised world fit for the future.

“We will be offering our guests the warmest of welcomes and the opportunity we have to showcase the very best of Cornwall on a global stage.”

Prime Minister Boris Johnson said that Cornwall was a "perfect location for 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,” he said.

“I’m very much looking forward to welcoming world leaders to this great region and country.”

Further details around plans for the Summit will be announced in due course. The Government is working closely with Cornwall Council, Devon and Cornwall Police, Members of Parliament and other local stakeholders to ensure the smooth running of the event.

Contingency planning is also under way depending on Covid-19 restrictions and the need for social distancing and international travel restrictions.