IQALUIT - The G7 meeting was a positive for Iqaluit, said the federal finance minister.

Jim Flaherty hosted his counterparts from the United States, Germany, France, Italy, Britain and Japan in the Nunavut capital Feb. 5 and 6. The Central Bank Governors of those countries, as well as finance and central bank deputies, were also part of the delegations.

During the group's official meeting at Nunavut's legislative assembly, delegates discussed the global economic situation, which Flaherty said has improved and continues to do so. Financial reform, development goals and Haiti's bi-lateral debt forgiven by the G7 countries and long-term reconstruction of that country, as well as the future of the G7 itself were also topics of discussion. Flaherty added this meeting represents a new start with its informal setting and continues to be a first responder in times of financial crisis.

"We've had a delightful time," he said. "The people of Iqaluit have been terrific. They've been welcoming and warm; even provided excellent weather for February. I hope ... that we haven't disrupted the town excessively and that things will get back to normal after we leave."

Shortly after Flaherty arrived in the city, he and small number of dignitaries went dog sledding on the outskirts of Iqaluit.

"It was great out there. I was impressed by the cohesion of the dog pack," said Flaherty. "This is a totally beautiful place. It's one of the beautiful places in the world, in the Canadian Arctic. It's pristine. I'm so happy that all of my colleagues were enthusiastic about coming to Nunavut."

There were no protests held in the city during the summit.