TOKYO, Jul. 5, 2009 (Kyodo News International) -- The upcoming Group of Eight summit in Italy will not deal with ''new themes,'' but it is ''very important'' that leaders from developed countries meet regularly and exchange views on global challenges, Finance Minister Kaoru Yosano said Monday.

''I believe there will be no new themes at the G-8 summit,'' Yosano said at a news conference, when asked about the outlook for the meeting Wednesday in the central Italian city of L'Aquila.

''What is very important is that leaders from developed countries meet regularly'' and discuss issues challenging the international community, Yosano said.

The G-8 comprises Britain, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia and the United States. The G-8 leaders will also meet leaders from emerging countries and Africa on Thursday and Friday.