US President Joe Biden was notably absent from the official G20 ‘family photo,’ sparking speculation about his increasingly sidelined global status amidst a potential Trump return. The incident, blamed on logistical issues by US officials, highlights the shifting dynamics of global power and the symbolism of the annual G20 photograph.
The G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro tackles critical global challenges, from climate change and hunger to reforming international institutions. Brazil’s presidency emphasizes sustainable development and social inclusion, aiming to build a fairer world.
The G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro grappled with escalating diplomatic tensions over climate finance, reaching a fragile consensus that mirrors the challenges faced at the COP29 summit in Azerbaijan. The looming shadow of President-elect Trump’s climate policies further complicates the already precarious situation, threatening global efforts to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
India’s External Affairs Minister, S Jaishankar, has asserted that countries from the Global South hold a high degree of trust and expectations in India. He cited India’s actions during the COVID-19 pandemic, its support for Ukraine, and the inclusion of the African Union in the G20 as evidence of India’s commitment to the Global South. Jaishankar’s remarks highlight India’s growing influence and its role as a responsible global power.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has decided not to attend the upcoming G20 summit in Brazil, citing concerns that his presence would disrupt the conference. This comes after Ukraine’s call to arrest Putin based on an International Criminal Court (ICC) warrant for his arrest. Putin denies the allegations and claims the warrant is easily circumvented.
The UAE Minister of Economy and Chairman of the Emirates Tourism Council, H.E. Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, represented the UAE at the G20 tourism ministers’ meeting in Brazil, highlighting the country’s commitment to sustainable tourism and fostering global collaboration. Discussions centered on economic growth, digital transformation, and strengthening partnerships with key nations, including Brazil, India, Azerbaijan, and South Africa.
Saudi Arabia has witnessed a remarkable surge in tourism, becoming the fastest-growing G20 country in the sector. This growth is attributed to ambitious Vision 2030 initiatives, strategic investments in transformative projects like NEOM and the Red Sea Project, and a focus on sustainable tourism practices. The country’s success highlights its dedication to becoming a global tourism leader and offers valuable insights for other nations seeking to boost their tourism sectors.
The UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) has highlighted the critical need for climate action within the tourism sector to ensure its long-term resilience and benefit host communities. UNWTO Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili, at the G20 Tourism Ministers’ meeting in Brazil, emphasized the need for transforming tourism practices, prioritizing environmentally conscious and community-centered approaches. As global tourism recovers from the pandemic, the focus is shifting towards sustainable strategies that prioritize nature conservation, climate resilience, and economic inclusivity.
At the G20 Tourism Ministers meeting in Belem, Brazil, the UN World Tourism Organization emphasized the need for a sustainable and inclusive future for the tourism sector. With tourism recovery underway, the focus shifted to climate action, empowering local communities, and addressing skills gaps. The meeting concluded with the adoption of the Belem Declaration, reaffirming the G20’s commitment to sustainable tourism.
India’s Tourism Minister, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, met with his counterparts from Brazil, Spain, and Saudi Arabia at the G20 Tourism Ministerial Conference in Brazil. These meetings aimed to boost tourism cooperation and strengthen people-to-people connections between the nations. Key discussions focused on youth training and development in the tourism sector, showcasing India’s commitment to sustainable growth and global tourism leadership.
