Dubai: In the shadow of the Corona Virus epidemic, the G-20 Summit is scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia this week and will deviate from its traditional meetings so far. There are full chances. This meeting will be digital and it will not be a gathering of leaders of rich and developing countries of the world. Besides, closed-door meetings between the rulers, presidents, and prime ministers of different countries will not take place. There will also be no opportunity for leaders to take memorable photos. Also, the Saudi hosts will not get a chance to dazzle the world’s media.
Even a global integrated response to deal with the most severe epidemic of the last several decades is not expected. Billions of dollars have been promised for drugs and vaccines, but most G20 nations have focused on securing their supplies. The current epidemic has given the G-20 a chance to prove how such a body can promote international cooperation in crises. In addition, the group can also underline its shortcomings.
G20 member countries represent about 85 percent of the world’s economic output and three-quarters of international trade. It was established in 1999 as a way for finance ministers and central bank governors to discuss the global economy. Shah Salman had called a digital meeting of G-20 leaders in March when border closures and lockdowns were being imposed due to the corona virus.
