World leaders called for peace in the Ukraine-Russia war and a de-escalation in the Middle East, just hours before Russia claimed Ukraine had begun launching American-made long-range missiles into its territory.
The leaders of the world’s 20 largest economies have been holding two-day G20 talks in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, where the presidents of the United States and China were among those to sign onto the joint declaration.
“We note with distress the immense human suffering and the adverse impact of wars and conflicts around the world,” the statement reads.
Russia is among the G20 nations, and the statement makes no direct references to the country’s invasion of Ukraine but urges “good neighbourly relations among nations”.
The leaders also pressed for a greater flow of aid into Gaza.
“While expressing our deep concern about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip and the escalation in Lebanon,” it reads.
The statement included “affirming the Palestinian right to self-determination” and a commitment to a two-state solution between Israel and a Palestinian State “consistent with international law and relevant UN resolutions”.
Israel’s war in Gaza has stretched into its second year and has had a heavy civilian death toll. (Reuters)
The leaders also supported a deal on climate finance, which is currently being negotiated at the COP climate summit in Azerbaijan.
Those talks are determining how much developed countries should pay and whether richer developing countries like China should also contribute.
As the G20 host, Brazil’s president gained the support of leaders to call for a possible global tax on billionaires and to transform the UN Security Council — to bolster African, Asia-Pacific and Latin American representation. But both were light on details.
PM meets with Indian leader
Before departing Brazil, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese held formal talks with India’s Narendra Modi.
The two discussed trade and greater military co-operation.
“There is so much potential in the relationship between Australia and India, so much more we can do together to build a stronger, safer and more prosperous future for citizens in both of our countries,” Mr Albanese said.
One issue that remains between Australia and India are the growing ties between Mr Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Their countries have grown closer economically and diplomatically in recent years.
Mr Modi says he invited Mr Albanese to India next year for a meeting of Quad leaders. (AP: Rajesh Kumar Singh)
Mr Putin isn’t in Brazil as he faces an International Criminal Court arrest warrant. Despite that, Mr Modi will soon host Mr Putin in New Delhi.
“Prime Minister Modi will conduct foreign policy as he sees it,” Mr Albanese told reporters.
“What’s important about Australia’s relationship with India is that it’s constructive and positive.”
India and Australia are both members of the Quad, alongside the US and Japan.
Mr Modi said he invited Mr Albanese to India next year for a meeting of Quad leaders.
