Prime Minister Støre at the G20 Summit: Many important issues for Norway

The G20 is made up of 19 of the world’s largest and most important economies, the EU and the African Union (AU). This year, Norway has been invited to participate as a guest country.

‘The Summit brings together the largest industrial countries as well as emerging economies such as China and India. This makes the G20 a key arena for international cooperation. During this past year, Norway has been able to exert influence on issues that are of importance to us and that help to push the world in a more equitable, climate-friendly direction,’ said Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre.

Global crises

Over the years, the G20 countries have played a vital role in dealing with global crises and driving essential international processes forward. Examples of how the G20 has helped to address major challenges include initiatives implemented during the 2008 financial crisis, joint efforts in connection with the COVID-19 pandemic and the establishment of the Green Climate Fund.

‘Global power structures are shifting, which makes it even more crucial for Norway to participate in the work of the G20. A stable, well-functioning international system is crucial both for safeguarding Norway’s security and for ensuring its economic growth,’ said Mr Støre.

Over the past year, Norwegian government ministries have taken part in some 25 working groups and various government ministers have participated in a range of political meetings. The G20 Summit in Rio represents the conclusion of the G20’s work this year, and is being attended by heads of state and government. The Summit will adopt a Leaders’ Declaration that points out the way forward for the G20’s work and offers specific recommendations for other international processes.

Hunger and poverty

Brazil has held the G20 Presidency this year and focused its efforts particularly on the fight against hunger, poverty and inequality. Other priority areas have included climate change, the energy transition and reform of multilateral institutions. During its Presidency, Brazil established the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, which mobilises countries across the world. Norway is an active partner in this work.

‘Participation as a guest country in the G20 has given Norway an excellent opportunity to highlight Norwegian solutions and strengthen international agreement on issues of importance to Norway. Food security and efforts to combat hunger are key priority areas in our development policy. We will continue to address challenges in these areas from within and outside the G20,’ said Mr Støre.

South Africa will assume the G20 Presidency following the Summit in Rio.