Summary On May 22, 2023, Asahi Shimbun published an article based on an interview with Professor Maiko Ichihara at the Graduate School of Law, titled "Integration of the Emerging Countries: A Double-Edged Sword.” This article discusses the importance of cooperation with emerging and developing countries known as the "Global South" in the G7 Summit. Professor Ichihara evaluated that while the setting of practical and collaborative agendas as a demonstration of consideration for these nations, the G7's approach appeared to forcibly incorporate the Global South into the "West." The processor noted that this approach has garnered mixed opinions and has the potential to provoke backlash. Additionally, Japan's involvement may have led to an increased perception of Japan as part of the West, and Japan needs to delicately manage its relations with the Global South more than ever.