G20 leaders release declaration on 1st day of meetings in Rio de Janeiro

RIO DE JANEIRO – The Leaders of the G20 released the declaration on the first day of meetings in the capital of Brazil, Rio de Janeiro.

The Leaders of the G20 met to address major global challenges and crises and promote strong, sustainable, balanced, and inclusive growth. 

The declaration reaffirmed the role of the G20 as the premier forum for international economic cooperation. 

The leaders said that they share a collective responsibility for the effective stewardship of the global economy, fostering the conditions for sustainable, resilient and inclusive global growth. 

They added that they remain committed to support developing countries in responding to global crises and challenges and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals.

They expressed their deep concern about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and the escalation in Lebanon, emphasizing the urgent need to expand the flow of humanitarian assistance and to reinforce the protection of civilians and demand the lifting of all barriers to the provision of humanitarian assistance at scale. 

They also highlighted the human suffering and negative impacts of the war. 

Affirming the Palestinian right to self-determination, they reiterated their unwavering commitment to the vision of the two-state solution where Israel and a Palestinian State live side by side in peace within secure and recognized borders, consistent with international law and relevant UN resolutions.

The leaders said that they are united in support for a comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza in line with UN Security Council Resolution no 2735 and in Lebanon that enables citizens to return safely to their homes on both sides of the Blue Line.

Specifically concerning the war in Ukraine, while recalling discussions in New Delhi, they highlighted the human suffering and negative added impacts of the war with regard to global food and energy security, supply chains, macro-financial stability, inflation and growth. 

They welcomed all relevant and constructive initiatives that support a comprehensive, just, and durable peace, upholding all the Purposes and Principles of the UN Charter for the promotion of peaceful, friendly, and good neighborly relations among nations.

They expressed their recommitment to advancing the goal of a world free of nuclear weapons and a safer place for all and will uphold our obligations in this regard.

They condemned terrorism in all its forms and manifestations.