In mid-1970s , French president proposed informal meeting of leaders from six nations . The idea was to discuss the future of Europe and its relations with other countries in a more open way than had been possible before. Last week 's g20 did nothing to allay anxieties about Euro crisis . The G-8+5 format quickly broke down however . With more countries added , costs rose , results vanished .
In mid-1970s , French president proposed informal meeting of leaders from six nations . The idea was to discuss the future of Europe and its relations with other countries in a more open way than had been possible before. Last week 's g20 did nothing to allay anxieties about Euro crisis . With more countries added , costs rose , results vanished .