France, May 6 -- The meeting comes as President Donald Trump paused a US operation to escort ships through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important oil shipping routes, during talks on a possible Iran agreement.

The growing instability has added pressure to talks already focused on supply chains, industrial policy and economic security.

Ministers from Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the US are discussing four priorities set by France, which holds the rotating G7 presidency this year: industrial overcapacity, critical minerals, reform of the World Trade Organisation and cross-border e-commerce.

Separate talks were also expected on Trump's threat to raise tariffs on European cars and trucks after accusin...