The G7 (also known as the G-7 or Group of Seven) is the meeting of the finance ministers from the group of seven inustrialized nations of the world. It was formed in 1976, when Canada joined the Group of Six: France, Germany, Italy, Japan, United Kingdom, and United States of America. The finance ministers of these countries meet several times a year to discuss economic policies. Their work is supported by regular, functional meetings of officials, including the G-7 Finance Deputies.