This year’s summit resulted in the New Delhi G20 Leaders’ Declaration, where under the theme Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one family) the leaders pledged to the philosophy of living in harmony within their respective surrounding ecosystem, and to make decisions for the future of the people and planet.

Held on Wednesday evening, the virtual meeting centered on economic and financial cooperation. However, the discussions also touched on current geopolitical conflicts, particularly regarding Ukraine and Gaza. Modi underlined the need for immediate collective action from all member states.

Coordinating Economic Minister Airlangga Hartarto, who was present virtually on behalf of President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo, called for support for Palestine amid the current situation, echoing India’s prime minister on the need for international action. He also called for the two-state solution in Palestine, which was supported by six other G20 country leaders.

 “As world leaders, we have great power, and therefore great responsibility. If the G20 could take action on the humanitarian situation elsewhere two years ago, we can do it in Gaza now. We must support the realization of a two-state solution based on internationally agreed parameters," Airlangga stated.

The ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza are expected to increase the burden borne from the global crisis, diminishing the achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for all countries. Moreover, the current geopolitical situation has become an obstacle in developing a more stable global economy, especially as some have not fully recovered from the pandemic.

Airlangga also conveyed Indonesia’s emphasis on solidarity and global leadership in support of meaningful dialogue, along with prioritizing peace as a prerequisite for progress and development.

"The G20 must ensure that no party is above the law. We must avoid taking the law into our own hands. We must respect the United Nations Charter and international law, because conflict creates instability and economic turmoil. Concrete action is needed and we can start now.”

Leaders of the G20 unanimously agreed to call for immediate action to end the conflict in Palestine and send humanitarian aid to the residents of the Gaza Strip. Airlangga also advised on the importance of international dialog, which has been proven during the Indonesian presidency to bridge differences and prevent division within the group.

Prime Minister Modi, who opened the meeting, conveyed the inclusive achievements of the New Delhi G20 Summit with the inclusion of the African Union in the G20 forum. He also conveyed the importance of Global South cooperation and announced India's contribution of US$25 million to the Social Impact Fund in Global South countries.

Furthermore, Airlangga added that the G20 must be able to encourage reform of multilateral development banks (MDBs) to make them more credible and prioritize innovative financing. On behalf of Indonesia, he encouraged the implementation of financing schemes such as the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) and the Global Blended Finance Alliance. Indonesia also launched the Indonesian Carbon Exchange in September of this year.

In addition, issues regarding climate change, energy transition, MDB reform, the impact of information technology and the implementation of digital public infrastructure were the focus of the intervention delivered by the leaders of the G20 countries present.

As Prime Minister Modi closed the 3.5-hour summit, he thanked countries and international organizations that had supported the Indian presidency and encouraged member states to support Brazil as the next host, formally passing the torch as well as concluding Indonesia’s role as the Troika in this year.

Popular

Stocks in Asia rise, yen wobbles after volatile start to week

In Numbers: How women fare in Indonesia

Indonesia may offer dual citizenship to attract overseas workers, minister says