‘Will contribute to a more stable world’

‘Norway has a very open economy and is completely dependent on stability and international cooperation. This applies to trade, climate, and sustainable development. Through our role as guest country in the G20, we can contribute to a less polarized world. The war in Gaza has increased the division between north and south. We must work together to overcome this, and the perception that the West has double standards. It is important that we listen to each other, also in more informal arenas such as the G20,’ said Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide. 

Brazil holds the G20 presidency this year and will organize a series of ministerial meetings leading up to the summit in November. A tense geopolitical situation forms the backdrop for the first G20 ministerial meeting of the year, which will take place in Rio de Janeiro this week. The meeting will discuss how to facilitate constructive cooperation throughout the year. The meeting will also address reform of the UN and international financial institutions. 

‘Norway is dependent on the world working well. Agreement in the G20 can have a direct impact on international trade, economy and development. Strengthening international economic cooperation makes our economy more resilient to external shocks. Increased international cooperation on tax is also important to overcome tax havens and the illegal movement of money that should instead benefit the community,’ said Eide.

Brazil's ambition for the G20 presidency this year is to reduce inequality in the world. Both through a fair energy transition, increased food security and reform of international financial institutions such as the IMF and the World Bank. The G20 emphasizes that economic growth must be inclusive, so that it contributes to reducing inequality. For Norway and other countries, a well-functioning tax system is important for financing welfare benefits and thus contributing to fairer distribution.  

‘We have been a solid partner for Brazil when it comes to deforestation. Brazil also appreciates the role Norway plays in various peace initiatives across the world. This does not mean that we agree on everything, but it is a meaningful and good dialogue that we look forward to further developing for a more stable world,’ said Eide.