ALL ABOUT G20

G20

Introduction

Definition of G20

• The G20 is an international forum consisting of the world's major economies.
• It was established in 1999 to promote global economic cooperation and financial stability.
• The G20 represents two-thirds of the world's population, 85% of global GDP, and over 75% of international trade.
• Its members include both developed and emerging economies, such as the United States, China, Germany, India, Brazil, and South Africa.
• The G20 holds annual summits where leaders discuss key issues related to the global economy and coordinate policies to address common challenges.
• In addition to the member countries, the G20 also invites guest countries and international organizations to participate in its meetings.
• Over time, the scope of discussions within the G20 has expanded beyond economic issues to include topics like climate change and sustainable development.
• The decisions made by the G20 have a significant impact on global economic governance and policy coordination among nations.

Purpose and objectives

• The G20 is an international forum for governments and central bank governors from 19 countries and the European Union.
• It was established in 1999 to promote global economic stability, sustainable development, and financial cooperation.
• The main purpose of the G20 is to provide a platform for dialogue and coordination on key issues affecting the global economy.
• The objectives of the G20 include addressing economic challenges, fostering international trade and investment, promoting financial regulations, and addressing issues related to poverty reduction and development.
• Through regular meetings, the G20 members discuss policy measures, share best practices, and work towards achieving consensus on various economic issues.
• Another important objective of the G20 is to enhance cooperation among its member countries to address global challenges such as climate change, terrorism, health crises, and migration.
• In addition to its official members, the G20 also invites guest countries and representatives from international organizations to participate in its meetings to promote inclusivity and gather diverse perspectives on global issues.

Member countries

The G20 members are Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States, European Union.

Argentina

Argentina is a member country of the G20. It represents South America as one of the largest economies in the region. Argentina joined the G20 in 1999, becoming its first Latin American member. As a member of the G20, Argentina participates in discussions and decision-making on global economic issues. The country has hosted the G20 summit once, in Buenos Aires, in 2018. Argentina's membership in the G20 allows it to engage with other major economies to address global challenges and promote sustainable development. Being part of this forum provides Argentina with opportunities for international cooperation and economic integration at a global level.

Australia

Australia is a member country of the G20. It has been a member since the establishment of the G20 in 1999. Australia actively participates in G20 meetings and discussions on global economic issues. As a member, Australia contributes to shaping global economic policies and promoting international cooperation. The country's participation in the G20 reflects its importance as one of the world's largest economies and its commitment to addressing global challenges collectively with other nations.

Brazil

Brazil is a member of the G20. It is one of the largest economies in the world. Brazil has a population of over 200 million people The country is known for its rich biodiversity and Amazon rainforest. Brazil has a diverse culture, influenced by African, European, and Indigenous heritage. Agriculture plays a significant role in the Brazilian economy, with coffee, soybeans, and sugarcane being major exports. Brazil has a strong presence in sports, particularly football (soccer), having won the FIFA World Cup five times. The country faces challenges such as poverty, inequality, and deforestation in the Amazon region. Brazilian cuisine is famous for dishes like feijoada (black bean stew) and brigadier (chocolate truffles). Rio de Janeiro is home to iconic landmarks like Christ the Redeemer statue and Copacabana Beach.

Canada

Canada is a member country of the G20. It has been a member since the group's inception in 1999. Canada is one of the major economies represented in the G20. As a member, Canada actively participates in discussions and decision-making processes regarding global economic issues. The country's involvement in the G20 allows it to collaborate with other nations on policies that aim to promote economic stability and growth worldwide. Canada also hosts G20 summits on occasion, providing an opportunity for leaders from member countries to come together and discuss pressing global challenges.

China

China is a member of the G20. China became a member of the G20 in 1999. As one of the world's largest economies, China plays a significant role in shaping global economic policies and agendas through its participation in the G20. The Chinese delegation actively participates in discussions on issues such as trade, finance, development, and climate change during G20 summits. China's inclusion in the G20 reflects its growing influence on the global stage and its commitment to international cooperation and economic integration.

France

France is a member country of the G20. It has been a member since the establishment of the G20 in 1999. France is one of the seven founding members of the G20, along with Canada, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, and the United States. The country actively participates in G20 meetings and discussions on various global economic issues. As one of the largest economies in Europe and globally, France plays a significant role in shaping G20 policies and decisions. The French government regularly hosts G20 summits to facilitate international cooperation among member countries. France's involvement in the G20 reflects its commitment to promoting economic stability and sustainable development on a global scale.

Germany

Germany is a member of the G20. Germany has been a member of the G20 since its inception. As one of the largest economies in Europe, Germany plays a significant role within the G20 in shaping global economic agendas. Germany's Chancellor Angela Merkel has represented the country at numerous G20 summits throughout her tenure as leader.

India

India became a member of the G20 in 1999. India is the third-largest economy among the G20 countries. It is one of the fastest-growing major economies in the world. India has a significant influence on global economic and political issues. The country has actively participated in G20 summits and meetings, advocating for inclusive growth and development. India's membership in the G20 provides it with opportunities to engage with other major economies on various global challenges and policy matters. As a member, India collaborates with other countries to address issues like climate change, trade, investment, cybersecurity, and financial stability.

The 2023 G20 New Delhi summit is the first G20 summit held in India and South Asia. It is taking place at Bharat Mandapam International Exhibition-Convention Centre, Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The summit will include discussions among world leaders, including Joe Biden, Rishi Sunak, and Emmanuel Macron.

Indonesia

Indonesia is a country located in Southeast Asia. It is the largest archipelago in the world, consisting of over 17,000 islands. The capital city of Indonesia is Jakarta. The official language is Indonesian, but there are also many regional languages and dialects spoken throughout the country. Indonesia has a diverse culture influenced by various ethnic groups, including Javanese, Sundanese, and Balinese. It is known for its natural beauty, with stunning landscapes such as volcanoes, beaches, and rainforests. The economy of Indonesia relies heavily on agriculture, manufacturing industries, and tourism. Islam is the dominant religion in Indonesia; however, there are also significant populations of Christians, Hindus, Buddhists and other religious groups. Indonesian cuisine offers a wide variety of delicious dishes such as nasi goreng (fried rice), satay (grilled meat skewers), and rendang (spicy meat stew). Popular tourist destinations include Bali with its beautiful beaches and vibrant nightlife.

Italy

Italy is a country located in Southern Europe. It is known for its rich history, art, and culture. The capital city of Italy is Rome, which is home to famous landmarks such as the Colosseum and Vatican City. Italian cuisine is highly regarded worldwide and includes dishes such as pasta, pizza, gelato, and espresso. Italy has a diverse landscape that includes beautiful coastlines along the Mediterranean Sea, stunning mountain ranges like the Alps and Dolomites, and picturesque countryside dotted with vineyards and olive groves. The country has a long history of producing world-class fashion brands such as Gucci, Prada, Armani, and Versace. Some of Italy's most famous cities include Florence (known for its Renaissance art), Venice (famous for its canals), Milan (a global fashion hub), and Naples (renowned for its vibrant street life. Italy is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites including the historic centres of Rome, Florence, and Venice; the archaeological sites of Pompeii; the Amalfi Coast; Cinque Terre; Mount Etna in Sicily; among others.  

Japan

Japan is an island country located in East Asia. It has a rich and ancient history, with a unique blend of traditional and modern culture. The capital city is Tokyo, which is also the largest city in Japan. Japanese cuisine, such as sushi and ramen, is famous worldwide. The country is known for its technological advancements and innovation. Japan has beautiful landscapes, including Mount Fuji and cherry blossom trees in spring. Traditional arts like tea ceremonies, calligraphy, and kimono-wearing are still practised today.  

Mexico  

Mexico is a country located in the southern part of North America. It is bordered by the United States to the north and Belize and Guatemala to the south. Mexico has a rich history, with ancient civilizations such as the Maya, Aztecs, and Olmec leaving behind impressive ruins and artefacts. The official language of Mexico is Spanish, but there are also many indigenous languages spoken throughout the country. Mexican cuisine is diverse and popular worldwide, known for dishes such as tacos, enchiladas, guacamole, and salsa. Mexico is famous for its vibrant culture, including music genres like mariachi and banda music, traditional dances like ballet folklórico, and colourful festivals such as Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). The country boasts stunning natural landscapes like beaches along its coastline (including Cancun), deserts in Baja California Sur, and lush jungles in Chiapas state. Some of Mexico's most iconic landmarks include Chichen Itza (a UNESCO World Heritage site), and Teotihuacan's Pyramid of the Sun.

Russia

Russia is the largest country in the world by land area. Moscow is the capital and largest city of Russia. The official language of Russia is Russian. The currency used in Russia is the Russian ruble. Russia spans across 11 time zones, from UTC+2 to UTC+12. The Trans-Siberian Railway, spanning over 9,000 kilometres, is one of the longest railways in the world and crosses through Russia. Lake Baikal, located in Siberia, is the deepest lake in the world and holds around 20% of Earth's freshwater supply. The Kremlin, located in Moscow, serves as the official residence and workplace of the President of Russia. It also includes several historic buildings and museums. Russian literature has produced famous authors such as Leo Tolstoy, Fyodor Dostoevsky, and Anton Chekhov. Traditional Russian cuisine includes dishes like borscht (beet soup), pelmeni (dumplings), blini (pancakes), and caviar.

Saudi Arabia  

Saudi Arabia is located in the Middle East, on the Arabian Peninsula. It is the largest country in the Middle East and covers an area of approximately 2.15 million square kilometres. The capital city of Saudi Arabia is Riyadh. The official language of Saudi Arabia is Arabic. Islam is the official religion, and Saudi Arabia is home to the two holiest cities in Islam, Mecca and Medina. The economy of Saudi Arabia is heavily dependent on oil exports, as it has one of the world's largest reserves of petroleum. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was founded in 1932 by Abdulaziz Ibn Saud and has been ruled by his descendants ever since. Women in Saudi Arabia have faced strict restrictions on their rights and participation in public life. However, recent reforms have been introduced to give women more freedom and opportunities. Traditional culture plays an important role in society, with practices such as dress code (abaya for women), traditional dances (e.g., Ardah), and a strong emphasis on hospitality (Arabic coffee and dates). Some popular tourist destinations include historical sites like Al-Ula, and Madain Saleh (Saudi's first UNESCO World Heritage Site), modern cities like Jeddah with its iconic Corniche area, as well as natural wonders like Red Sea coral reefs.

South Africa

South Africa is located at the southernmost tip of the African continent. It is known for its diverse culture, with 11 official languages and a rich history of different ethnic groups. The country has stunning natural beauty, including iconic landmarks such as Table Mountain and Kruger National Park. South Africa is home to a wide range of wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and buffalo. It has a turbulent political history marked by apartheid, which was abolished in 1994 with the election of Nelson Mandela as the first black president. The economy of South Africa is one of the largest in Africa and is known for its mining industry (especially gold), agriculture, and tourism. Cape Town is one of South Africa's most popular tourist destinations due to its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and famous wine regions. Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and serves as a major business hub on the continent. The country has a strong sporting tradition and hosted both the FIFA World Cup (2010) and the Rugby World Cup (1995). 

South Korea

South Korea is a country located in East Asia. It has a population of over 51 million people. The capital city of South Korea is Seoul. South Korea has a developed and advanced economy, known for industries such as electronics, automobiles, and shipbuilding. The country is famous for its K-pop music, with popular bands like BTS gaining international recognition. South Korea has a rich cultural heritage, including traditional arts such as pottery, calligraphy, and martial arts like Taekwondo. Korean cuisine is diverse and includes dishes like kimchi (fermented vegetables), bibimbap (mixed rice), and bulgogi (marinated grilled meat). Tourism in South Korea attracts visitors to landmarks such as Gyeongbokgung Palace, Namsan Tower, Jeju Island's natural beauty, and the DMZ (Demilitarized Zone) border area with North Korea.

Turkey  

Turkey is a transcontinental country located mainly on the Anatolian Peninsula in Western Asia, with a smaller portion on the Balkan Peninsula in Southeast Europe- It is bordered by eight countries: Greece and Bulgaria to the northwest; Georgia to the northeast; Armenia, Azerbaijan, and Iran to the east; and Iraq and Syria to the south. The capital city of Turkey is Ankara, while Istanbul is its largest city and economic centre. Turkey has a rich history that spans over thousands of years. It was home to some of the earliest human civilizations such as Troy and Hittites, as well as being a part of ancient Greek and Roman empires. The country has numerous archaeological sites, including Ephesus, Pamukkale, Cappadocia, and Mount Nemrut. Turkish cuisine is known for its diverse flavours and influences from Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Central Asian, Balkan, and Ottoman cuisines. Popular dishes include kebabs (such as doner kebab), baklava (a sweet pastry), Turkish tea (çay), mezes (appetizers), Turkish delight (locum), pide (Turkish pizza), and more. Turkey has a diverse landscape with beautiful coastlines along the Aegean Sea in western Turkey and the Mediterranean Sea in southern Turkey. It also boasts stunning natural wonders like Pamukkale's hot springs terraces or Cappadocia's unique rock formations known as fairy chimneys. The country offers various outdoor activities like hiking in national parks such as Mount Ararat or skiing at popular ski resorts like Uludağ or Palandöken. Turkish culture is influenced by both Eastern traditions inherited from Ottoman times and Western values due to modernization efforts. Traditional arts like calligraphy (hat) or miniature painting coexist with contemporary art scenes found in cities like Istanbul or Izmir. Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Turkey, with passionate fans supporting their local teams. Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, and Beşiktaş are some of the most successful and well-known clubs in Turkish football.  

United Kingdom  

The United Kingdom is made up of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. London is the capital city of the United Kingdom. The official language spoken in the UK is English. The UK has a constitutional monarchy with Queen Elizabeth II as the current monarch. The currency used in the UK is the British Pound (£). The UK has a rich history and cultural heritage, with landmarks such as Stonehenge, Buckingham Palace, and Big Ben. Football (soccer) is one of the most popular sports in the UK, with famous teams like Manchester United and Liverpool FC. The education system in the UK includes prestigious universities like Oxford and Cambridge. Traditional British cuisine includes dishes such as fish and chips, roast beef and Yorkshire pudding, and afternoon tea.  

United States

The United States is a federal republic consisting of 50 states, a federal district (Washington, D.C.), five major self-governing territories, and various possessions. It is the world's third or fourth-largest country by total area and has a diverse population of more than 331 million people. The United States is known for its cultural diversity, with influences from various ethnic groups and immigrants from around the world. English is the most widely spoken language in the country, although Spanish is also commonly spoken due to its large Hispanic population. The United States has a strong economy and is one of the world's largest exporters and importers of goods and services. It has a democratic political system with three branches of government: executive, legislative, and judicial.

European Union

The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 member states located primarily in Europe. It was established by the Maastricht Treaty in 1993. The EU operates through a system of supranational institutions, including the European Commission, the Council of the European Union, and the European Parliament. The EU has a single market with free movement of goods, services, capital, and labour among its member states. It has its own currency called the Euro which is used by 19 member states. The EU promotes cooperation and integration among its members in various areas such as trade, agriculture, security, environment, and social policies. It aims to maintain peace and stability in Europe through diplomatic efforts and cooperation among its members. The EU has faced challenges such as Brexit (the withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the EU) but continues to work towards further integration and expansion.  

World leaders decided to grant the African Union (AU) permanent membership in the G20, making it the G21. Previously, the AU was only an invited international organization. This decision was made at the G20 summit which took place in New Delhi, India on September 9-10, 2023. The summit's theme was "One Earth, One Family, One Future".