<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-g20-finance-minister-nirmala-sitharaman-expresses-concern-over-citizenship-by-investment-scheme-for-economic-offenders-225812">Disallow offenders to use investment schemes for citizenship: India at G20</a> 
 
In a strong message to countries that provide citizenship to fugitive economic offenders through investment-based schemes, India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called for the need to deal with such practices.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kazakhstan-elects-new-leader-as-hundreds-arrested-in-protests-225813">Kazakhstan elects new leader as hundreds arrested in protests</a> 
 
The victory of career diplomat Kassym Jomart-Tokayev was never in doubt after he received the blessing of powerful Nazarbayev, who had led the Central Asian nation for the last three decades.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/booing-smith-not-acceptable-i-said-sorry-to-him-on-behalf-of-the-crowd-kohli-225807">Booing Smith not acceptable, I said sorry to him on behalf of the crowd: Kohli</a>

<a>Kohli said had apologised to Smith for the chants of "cheater" directed from the stands towards the former Australia captain.</a>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/major-fire-breaks-out-in-east-london-flats-225803">Major fire breaks out in east London flats</a> 
 
A fire broke out and set alight six floors of a residential block of flats in east London on Sunday evening , London Fire Brigade said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/situation-under-control-west-bengal-government-answers-home-ministrys-advisory-on-violence-225809">Situation 'under control', West Bengal government answers Home Ministry's advisory on violence</a> 
 
West Bengal Chief Secretary Malay Kumar De has informed the ministry that 'firm and appropriate actions' were initiated in case of a few 'stray post-poll clashes' in the state. 
&nbsp;

Disallow offenders to use investment schemes for citizenship: India at G20 In a strong message to countries that provide citizenship to fugitive economic offenders through investment-based schemes, India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called for the need to deal with such practices.

Disallow offenders to use investment schemes for citizenship: India at G20 In a strong message to countries that provide citizenship to fugitive economic offenders through investment-based schemes, India's finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman has called for the need to deal with such practices. Kazakhstan elects new leader as hundreds arrested in protests The victory of career diplomat Kassym Jomart-Tokayev was never in doubt after he received the blessing of powerful Nazarbayev, who had led the Central Asian nation for the last three decades. Booing Smith not acceptable, I said sorry to him on behalf of the crowd: Kohli Kohli said had apologised to Smith for the chants of "cheater" directed from the stands towards the former Australia captain. Major fire breaks out in east London flats A fire broke out and set alight six floors of a residential block of flats in east London on Sunday evening , London Fire Brigade said. Situation 'under control', West Bengal government answers Home Ministry's advisory on violence West Bengal Chief Secretary Malay Kumar De has informed the ministry that 'firm and appropriate actions' were initiated in case of a few 'stray post-poll clashes' in the state.

News brief: Big stories of the day

Ballooning healthcare costs, labour shortages and financial services for the elderly: for the first time Sunday, the world's top policymakers are tackling economic issues relating to ageing and shrinking birthrates.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trade-war-tariff-threats-to-challenge-g20-finance-leaders-solidarity-225361">G20 finance ministers and central bank chiefs meeting</a> in Japan - where a rapidly ageing population is a major domestic problem - have been warned to address the issue before it is too late.

"What we are saying is, 'If the issue of ageing starts to show its impact before you become wealthy, you really won't be able to take effective measures against it'," Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso, the meeting's host, told reporters late Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/g20-agrees-to-push-ahead-with-digital-tax-report-225566">The G20</a> is a mixed bag of countries at various stages of development and population profiles, ranging from rapidly-ageing Japan to Saudi Arabia, next year's G20 chair, which has a very young society.

And host Japan is eager to share its experience, with Aso sounding the alarm that nations must be ready to act before population ageing rears its head and piles pressure on the economy.

Longer life-expectancy and sliding birth rates, particularly among wealthy nations, have resulted in a rapid expansion of the elderly population in places like Spain, Italy and South Korea, according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development.

But the pattern is not limited to the rich world, with emerging powers like Brazil and China also facing "rapid demographic change" relative to their early development stage, according to the OECD.

By 2050, the world is projected to have more than two billion residents aged 60 and above, more than double the number in 2017, OECD says.

But many economies have failed to update their pension and employment systems to adjust to the changing demographics, experts warn.

This has resulted in fiscal and debt risks for whole countries, as well as individuals.

'Workforce is shrinking'&nbsp;

OECD chief Angel Gurria sounded the alert in an interview with AFP on the sidelines of the meeting in the western Japanese city of Fukuoka.&nbsp;

"You basically have a very large portion of mankind that is ageing and then the workforce is shrinking. But I would say the G20 in particular are ageing faster," the OECD secretary-general told AFP.

"These are trends that will continue, I am afraid. It's not something you can suddenly stop."

With its fast-shrinking workforce, Japan finds itself scrambling to find ways to cover the cost of its national pension.

It has left many elderly fearing cuts to their benefits, while young people worrying that a pension may not exist by the time they retire.

Meanwhile, a shrinking labour force means Japanese firms are unable to fill job openings, with the national unemployment rate standing at 2.4 percent.

And individuals are increasingly working beyond the traditional retirement age, while economies must offer jobs that older workers can perform, experts said.

Technology may help train elderly workers as well as to assist them access necessary services like healthcare and to manage their finances.

So global leaders in the finance sector not health ministers must take the lead, said Aso.

'Cover your pension'

Sunday's talks aim to prepare the ground for the leaders' summit in Japan's Osaka at the end of the month, as ageing becomes an increasingly pressing issue for the global elite.&nbsp;

"Most of the G20 nations already experience or will experience ageing," said Bank of Japan governor Haruhiko Kuroda. "We need to discuss problems that arise with societal ageing and how to deal with them."

"There is no nation that says ageing issues don't affect them. So we believe the discussions will be productive," added a senior Japanese finance ministry official.

As a way to counter the economic impacts, Gurria called for elderly workers and women to play a greater role in the workplace and urged young people to prepare better for their financial future.

A solution to the issue, Gurria said, requires "changes to the way society organises itself."

"Depending on how prepared you are, you are facing an uncertain future, which already has enough uncertainties," Gurria said.

"What you don't want is to have certainty that you don't have enough money in order to cover the pension," he said. 
&nbsp;

Ballooning healthcare costs, labour shortages and financial services for the elderly: for the first time Sunday, the world's top policymakers are tackling economic issues relating to ageing and shrinking birthrates.

Ballooning healthcare costs, labour shortages and financial services for the elderly: for the first time Sunday, the world's top policymakers are tackling economic issues relating to ageing and shrinking birthrates. G20 finance ministers and central bank chiefs meeting in Japan - where a rapidly ageing population is a major domestic problem - have been warned to address the issue before it is too late. "What we are saying is, 'If the issue of ageing starts to show its impact before you become wealthy, you really won't be able to take effective measures against it'," Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso, the meeting's host, told reporters late Saturday. The G20 is a mixed bag of countries at various stages of development and population profiles, ranging from rapidly-ageing Japan to Saudi Arabia, next year's G20 chair, which has a very young society. And host Japan is eager to share its experience, with Aso sounding the alarm that nations must be ready to act before population ageing rears its head and piles pressure on the economy. Longer life-expectancy and sliding birth rates, particularly among wealthy nations, have resulted in a rapid expansion of the elderly population in places like Spain, Italy and South Korea, according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. But the pattern is not limited to the rich world, with emerging powers like Brazil and China also facing "rapid demographic change" relative to their early development stage, according to the OECD. By 2050, the world is projected to have more than two billion residents aged 60 and above, more than double the number in 2017, OECD says. But many economies have failed to update their pension and employment systems to adjust to the changing demographics, experts warn. This has resulted in fiscal and debt risks for whole countries, as well as individuals. 'Workforce is shrinking' OECD chief Angel Gurria sounded the alert in an interview with AFP on the sidelines of the meeting in the western Japanese city of Fukuoka. "You basically have a very large portion of mankind that is ageing and then the workforce is shrinking. But I would say the G20 in particular are ageing faster," the OECD secretary-general told AFP. "These are trends that will continue, I am afraid. It's not something you can suddenly stop." With its fast-shrinking workforce, Japan finds itself scrambling to find ways to cover the cost of its national pension. It has left many elderly fearing cuts to their benefits, while young people worrying that a pension may not exist by the time they retire. Meanwhile, a shrinking labour force means Japanese firms are unable to fill job openings, with the national unemployment rate standing at 2.4 percent. And individuals are increasingly working beyond the traditional retirement age, while economies must offer jobs that older workers can perform, experts said. Technology may help train elderly workers as well as to assist them access necessary services like healthcare and to manage their finances. So global leaders in the finance sector not health ministers must take the lead, said Aso. 'Cover your pension' Sunday's talks aim to prepare the ground for the leaders' summit in Japan's Osaka at the end of the month, as ageing becomes an increasingly pressing issue for the global elite. "Most of the G20 nations already experience or will experience ageing," said Bank of Japan governor Haruhiko Kuroda. "We need to discuss problems that arise with societal ageing and how to deal with them." "There is no nation that says ageing issues don't affect them. So we believe the discussions will be productive," added a senior Japanese finance ministry official. As a way to counter the economic impacts, Gurria called for elderly workers and women to play a greater role in the workplace and urged young people to prepare better for their financial future. A solution to the issue, Gurria said, requires "changes to the way society organises itself." "Depending on how prepared you are, you are facing an uncertain future, which already has enough uncertainties," Gurria said. "What you don't want is to have certainty that you don't have enough money in order to cover the pension," he said.

In historic first, G20 weighs ageing as global risk

The world's top financial policymakers admitted Sunday that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-historic-first-g20-weighs-ageing-as-global-risk-225592">trade tensions had worsened</a>, posing a risk for the global economy, after a G20 meeting that laid bare differences between the United States and other nations.

Following 30 hours of wrangling in what one official described as a "tense" atmosphere, the G20 finance minister and central bank chiefs produced a final statement acknowledging that "growth remains low and risks remain tilted to the downside".

"Most importantly, trade and geopolitical tensions have intensified," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trade-war-tariff-threats-to-challenge-g20-finance-leaders-solidarity-225361">the G20</a> said, adding they "stood ready to take further action" if required.

As a compromise pushed by Washington, the statement omitted language from a previous draft that mentioned a "pressing need to resolve trade tensions".

The statement capped two days of talks in the western Japanese city of Fukuoka that also tackled the thorny issue of taxing internet giants and, for the first time, the economic challenges posed by ageing.

But trade battles were front and centre of policymakers' minds as the US and China continue to threaten each other with tariffs that economists fear could slam the brakes on global growth.

The IMF has said US-China tariffs could shave global GDP by 0.5 per cent in 2020 or about US$455 billion, stressing the need to resolve the differences to avoid plunging the world economy into another crisis.

IMF chief Christine Lagarde said that trade conflicts pose the "principal threat" to the global economic outlook.

Tariffs imposed by the world's top two economies could make a "significant dent" in the global recovery, added Lagarde.

The G20 ministers heaved a sigh of relief just hours before the meeting when the US and Mexico clinched a deal over immigration that stopped Washington imposing five-per cent tariffs on Mexican goods.

But US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin told reporters that Washington stood ready to impose more tariffs on China if President Donald Trump and China's Xi Jinping fail to strike a deal at the G20 summit later this month in Osaka.

"If China wants to come back to the table and negotiate on the basis that we were negotiating, we can get a great historic deal. If they don't, we'll proceed with our tariffs," Mnuchin told reporters on Saturday.

He tweeted on Sunday he had had a "constructive" meeting with China's central bank governor Yi Gang, during which there was a "candid discussion on trade issues".

Taking a different line from the other policymakers, Mnuchin said the slowdown in some parts of the world was not due to trade difficulties and even said the friction could benefit some countries if companies relocated from China to avoid tariffs. "There will be winners and losers," said the treasury secretary.

&nbsp;'I don't like them'&nbsp;

The quandary of reforming the global tax system to take into account the rise of internet giants such as Google and Facebook was another issue exercising the minds of policymakers in the coastal city.

In the final statement, the G20 agreed to "redouble our efforts for a consensus-based solution with a final report by 2020".

However, here again, the Fukuoka meeting exposed a difference of opinion over what form this reform should take.

Frustrated by a lack of global action on the issue, some countries such as Britain and France have already introduced a so-called digital tax, but Mnuchin was blunt in his assessment of these policies.

"I would say the US has significant concerns with the two current taxes that are being proposed by France and the UK but let me give them some good credit for proposing them in the sense (that) they have created an urgency to deal with this issue," Mnuchin said at a public meeting before the formal G20 started.

"Although I don't like them, I do appreciate the impetus for these issues," added the top US finance official.

Appropriately for a meeting held in Japan -- which is on track to become the world's first "super-aged" society in which more than 28 per cent of the population is over 65 -- the G20 ministers discussed for the first time the "challenges and opportunities" posed by ageing.

They suggested getting more women and elderly people into the workforce and "promoting elderly-friendly industries", as well as reforming the fiscal and banking systems to take into account ageing populations.

"You basically have a very large portion of mankind that is ageing and then the workforce is shrinking," OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurria told AFP in an interview.

Solving the issue will require wholesale changes to the way society is organised, added Gurria.&nbsp;

The world's top financial policymakers admitted Sunday that trade tensions had worsened, posing a risk for the global economy, after a G20 meeting that laid bare differences between the United States and other nations.

The world's top financial policymakers admitted Sunday that trade tensions had worsened, posing a risk for the global economy, after a G20 meeting that laid bare differences between the United States and other nations. Following 30 hours of wrangling in what one official described as a "tense" atmosphere, the G20 finance minister and central bank chiefs produced a final statement acknowledging that "growth remains low and risks remain tilted to the downside". "Most importantly, trade and geopolitical tensions have intensified," the G20 said, adding they "stood ready to take further action" if required. As a compromise pushed by Washington, the statement omitted language from a previous draft that mentioned a "pressing need to resolve trade tensions". The statement capped two days of talks in the western Japanese city of Fukuoka that also tackled the thorny issue of taxing internet giants and, for the first time, the economic challenges posed by ageing. But trade battles were front and centre of policymakers' minds as the US and China continue to threaten each other with tariffs that economists fear could slam the brakes on global growth. The IMF has said US-China tariffs could shave global GDP by 0.5 per cent in 2020 or about US$455 billion, stressing the need to resolve the differences to avoid plunging the world economy into another crisis. IMF chief Christine Lagarde said that trade conflicts pose the "principal threat" to the global economic outlook. Tariffs imposed by the world's top two economies could make a "significant dent" in the global recovery, added Lagarde. The G20 ministers heaved a sigh of relief just hours before the meeting when the US and Mexico clinched a deal over immigration that stopped Washington imposing five-per cent tariffs on Mexican goods. But US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin told reporters that Washington stood ready to impose more tariffs on China if President Donald Trump and China's Xi Jinping fail to strike a deal at the G20 summit later this month in Osaka. "If China wants to come back to the table and negotiate on the basis that we were negotiating, we can get a great historic deal. If they don't, we'll proceed with our tariffs," Mnuchin told reporters on Saturday. He tweeted on Sunday he had had a "constructive" meeting with China's central bank governor Yi Gang, during which there was a "candid discussion on trade issues". Taking a different line from the other policymakers, Mnuchin said the slowdown in some parts of the world was not due to trade difficulties and even said the friction could benefit some countries if companies relocated from China to avoid tariffs. "There will be winners and losers," said the treasury secretary. 'I don't like them' The quandary of reforming the global tax system to take into account the rise of internet giants such as Google and Facebook was another issue exercising the minds of policymakers in the coastal city. In the final statement, the G20 agreed to "redouble our efforts for a consensus-based solution with a final report by 2020". However, here again, the Fukuoka meeting exposed a difference of opinion over what form this reform should take. Frustrated by a lack of global action on the issue, some countries such as Britain and France have already introduced a so-called digital tax, but Mnuchin was blunt in his assessment of these policies. "I would say the US has significant concerns with the two current taxes that are being proposed by France and the UK but let me give them some good credit for proposing them in the sense (that) they have created an urgency to deal with this issue," Mnuchin said at a public meeting before the formal G20 started. "Although I don't like them, I do appreciate the impetus for these issues," added the top US finance official. Appropriately for a meeting held in Japan -- which is on track to become the world's first "super-aged" society in which more than 28 per cent of the population is over 65 -- the G20 ministers discussed for the first time the "challenges and opportunities" posed by ageing. They suggested getting more women and elderly people into the workforce and "promoting elderly-friendly industries", as well as reforming the fiscal and banking systems to take into account ageing populations. "You basically have a very large portion of mankind that is ageing and then the workforce is shrinking," OECD Secretary-General Angel Gurria told AFP in an interview. Solving the issue will require wholesale changes to the way society is organised, added Gurria.

G20 says worsening trade wars pose risk to world economy

Group of 20 finance ministers agreed on Saturday to compile common rules to close loopholes used by global tech giants such as Facebook to reduce their corporate taxes, a copy of the bloc's draft communique obtained by Reuters showed.

Facebook, Google, Amazon, and other large technology firms face criticism for cutting their tax bills by booking profits in low-tax countries regardless of the location of the end customer. Such practices are seen by many as unfair.

The new rules would mean higher tax burdens for large multinational firms but would also make it harder for countries like Ireland to attract foreign direct investment with the promise of ultra-low corporate tax rates.

"We welcome the recent progress on addressing the tax challenges arising from digitization and endorse the ambitious program that consists of a two-pillar approach," the draft communique said. "We will redouble our efforts for a consensus-based solution with a final report by 2020."

Britain and France have been among the most vocal proponents of proposals to tax big tech companies that focus on making it more difficult to shift profits to low-tax jurisdictions, and to introduce a minimum corporate tax.

This has put the two countries at loggerheads with the United States, which has expressed concern that US Internet companies are being unfairly targeted in a broad push to update the global corporate tax code.

"The United States has significant concerns with the two corporate taxes proposed by France and the UK," US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on Saturday at a two-day meeting of G20 finance ministers in the Japanese city of Fukuoka.

"It sounds like we have a strong consensus" about the goals of tax reform, Mnuchin later said.

"So now we need to just take the consensus across here and deal with technicalities of how we turn this into an agreement."

Mnuchin spoke at a panel on global taxation at the G20 after the French and British finance ministers voiced sympathy with his concerns that new tax rules do not discriminate against particular firms.

Big Internet companies say they follow tax rules but have paid little tax in Europe, typically by channelling sales via countries such as Ireland and Luxembourg, which have light-touch tax regimes.

The G20's debate on changes to the tax code focus on two pillars that could be a double whammy for some companies.

The first pillar is dividing up the rights to tax a company where its goods or services are sold even if it does not have a physical presence in that country.

If companies are still able to find a way to book profits in low tax or offshore havens, countries could then apply a global minimum tax rate to be agreed under the second pillar.

The path to a final agreement is still fraught with difficulty because of disagreement on a common definition of digital business and on how to distribute tax authority among different countries.

"There are differences between the United States and the United Kingdom over pillar one. As for pillar two, there are also differences in views within the Group of 7," said a senior Japanese finance ministry official present at the G20.

The G7 likely will not issue any communique at a meeting of the world's leading economic powers next month, according to the official. Still, several finance ministers at the G20 said on Saturday they needed to act quickly to correct unfair corporate tax codes or risk being punished by voters.

"We cannot explain to a population that they should pay their taxes when certain companies do not because they shift their profits to low-tax jurisdictions," French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said during the panel discussion.

The US government has voiced concern in the past that the European campaign for a "digital tax" unfairly targets US tech giants.

After listening to presentations by Le Maire and British finance minister Philip Hammond, Mnuchin said on Saturday G20 countries should issue "marching orders" to their respective finance ministries to negotiate the technical aspects of a deal.

Earlier this year, countries and territories agreed to a roadmap aimed at overhauling international tax rules that have been overtaken by the development of digital commerce.

Group of 20 finance ministers agreed on Saturday to compile common rules to close loopholes used by global tech giants such as Facebook to reduce their corporate taxes, a copy of the bloc's draft communique obtained by Reuters showed.

Group of 20 finance ministers agreed on Saturday to compile common rules to close loopholes used by global tech giants such as Facebook to reduce their corporate taxes, a copy of the bloc's draft communique obtained by Reuters showed. Facebook, Google, Amazon, and other large technology firms face criticism for cutting their tax bills by booking profits in low-tax countries regardless of the location of the end customer. Such practices are seen by many as unfair. The new rules would mean higher tax burdens for large multinational firms but would also make it harder for countries like Ireland to attract foreign direct investment with the promise of ultra-low corporate tax rates. "We welcome the recent progress on addressing the tax challenges arising from digitization and endorse the ambitious program that consists of a two-pillar approach," the draft communique said. "We will redouble our efforts for a consensus-based solution with a final report by 2020." Britain and France have been among the most vocal proponents of proposals to tax big tech companies that focus on making it more difficult to shift profits to low-tax jurisdictions, and to introduce a minimum corporate tax. This has put the two countries at loggerheads with the United States, which has expressed concern that US Internet companies are being unfairly targeted in a broad push to update the global corporate tax code. "The United States has significant concerns with the two corporate taxes proposed by France and the UK," US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said on Saturday at a two-day meeting of G20 finance ministers in the Japanese city of Fukuoka. "It sounds like we have a strong consensus" about the goals of tax reform, Mnuchin later said. "So now we need to just take the consensus across here and deal with technicalities of how we turn this into an agreement." Mnuchin spoke at a panel on global taxation at the G20 after the French and British finance ministers voiced sympathy with his concerns that new tax rules do not discriminate against particular firms. Big Internet companies say they follow tax rules but have paid little tax in Europe, typically by channelling sales via countries such as Ireland and Luxembourg, which have light-touch tax regimes. The G20's debate on changes to the tax code focus on two pillars that could be a double whammy for some companies. The first pillar is dividing up the rights to tax a company where its goods or services are sold even if it does not have a physical presence in that country. If companies are still able to find a way to book profits in low tax or offshore havens, countries could then apply a global minimum tax rate to be agreed under the second pillar. The path to a final agreement is still fraught with difficulty because of disagreement on a common definition of digital business and on how to distribute tax authority among different countries. "There are differences between the United States and the United Kingdom over pillar one. As for pillar two, there are also differences in views within the Group of 7," said a senior Japanese finance ministry official present at the G20. The G7 likely will not issue any communique at a meeting of the world's leading economic powers next month, according to the official. Still, several finance ministers at the G20 said on Saturday they needed to act quickly to correct unfair corporate tax codes or risk being punished by voters. "We cannot explain to a population that they should pay their taxes when certain companies do not because they shift their profits to low-tax jurisdictions," French Finance Minister Bruno Le Maire said during the panel discussion. The US government has voiced concern in the past that the European campaign for a "digital tax" unfairly targets US tech giants. After listening to presentations by Le Maire and British finance minister Philip Hammond, Mnuchin said on Saturday G20 countries should issue "marching orders" to their respective finance ministries to negotiate the technical aspects of a deal. Earlier this year, countries and territories agreed to a roadmap aimed at overhauling international tax rules that have been overtaken by the development of digital commerce.

G20 agrees to push ahead with digital tax: Report

Widening fallout from the US-China trade war and escalating tariff threats will test the resolve of Group of 20 finance leaders to show a united front this week, as investors worry if they can avert a global recession with dwindling policy ammunition.

Japan, which is chairing this year's G20 meetings, has said the finance leaders' meeting won't put trade issues high on the agenda and will not seek to mediate bilateral trade tensions.

But the broadening pain from the trade war will make it hard for G20 finance ministers and central bank heads to side-step the topic when they gather for a two-day meeting starting on Saturday in the southern Japan city of Fukuoka.

A senior US&nbsp;Treasury official said trade will be one of the topics of the meeting, both in the context on how it affects the global economy and how to "reduce some of the unfair trade practices that may exist."

Tensions over trade could heighten challenges for G20 finance leaders to seek common ground on how to frame the issue in a communique expected to be released after their gathering.

"The communique is always fun to do, so I anticipate we'll have some interesting conversations on trade, as well as other issues. And I expect we'll likely get to a communique, but you never know," the official told reporters earlier this week.

US&nbsp;Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin will meet People's Bank of China Governor Yi Gang in Fukuoka on the sidelines of the G20 gathering. Mnuchin will also hold talks with Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso.

TRADE DAMAGE WIDENING

Relations between the United States and China have deteriorated since President Donald Trump in early May accused Beijing of reneging on commitments to change its ways of doing business with the rest of the world.

The US&nbsp;raised tariffs on Chinese imports and threatened new ones, and China retaliated. The escalation has rattled global financial markets and wiped out more than $1.5 trillion in investments worldwide, stoking fears of a global downturn.

Trump said on Thursday he would meet President Xi Jinping at a G20 leaders' summit late this month and decide afterwards whether to hit Beijing with more tariffs.

With much of the world economy still recovering from the global financial crisis a decade ago, the focus is shifting to how much dry powder central banks have left to battle the next downturn.

US&nbsp;Federal Reserve policymakers have hinted they would be ready to cut interest rates and the European Central Bank on Thursday opened the door to more stimulus if needed.

The International Monetary Fund on Wednesday warned that current and threatened US-China tariffs could cut global economic output by 0.5 per cent&nbsp;in 2020.

IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde told Reuters that while there was no imminent threat of a global recession, such tariff threats and trade wars were "self-inflicted wounds" that must be avoided.

While the G20 communique is set to maintain the view that global growth will pick up through next year, some policymakers may flag growing risks when they speak on the sidelines of the meeting.

"There's not much the G20 can do to ease Sino-US&nbsp;trade tensions because Washington doesn't see benefit in fixing problems under a multilateral framework," said Takahide Kiuchi, a former Bank of Japan board member who is now an executive economist at Nomura Research Institute.

"If the G20 finance leaders can't talk about trade, it means they can't engage in substantial debate on the most imminent threat to the global economy."

Widening fallout from the US-China trade war and escalating tariff threats will test the resolve of Group of 20 finance leaders to show a united front this week, as investors worry if they can avert a global recession with dwindling policy ammunition.

Widening fallout from the US-China trade war and escalating tariff threats will test the resolve of Group of 20 finance leaders to show a united front this week, as investors worry if they can avert a global recession with dwindling policy ammunition. Japan, which is chairing this year's G20 meetings, has said the finance leaders' meeting won't put trade issues high on the agenda and will not seek to mediate bilateral trade tensions. But the broadening pain from the trade war will make it hard for G20 finance ministers and central bank heads to side-step the topic when they gather for a two-day meeting starting on Saturday in the southern Japan city of Fukuoka. A senior US Treasury official said trade will be one of the topics of the meeting, both in the context on how it affects the global economy and how to "reduce some of the unfair trade practices that may exist." Tensions over trade could heighten challenges for G20 finance leaders to seek common ground on how to frame the issue in a communique expected to be released after their gathering. "The communique is always fun to do, so I anticipate we'll have some interesting conversations on trade, as well as other issues. And I expect we'll likely get to a communique, but you never know," the official told reporters earlier this week. US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin will meet People's Bank of China Governor Yi Gang in Fukuoka on the sidelines of the G20 gathering. Mnuchin will also hold talks with Japanese Finance Minister Taro Aso. TRADE DAMAGE WIDENING Relations between the United States and China have deteriorated since President Donald Trump in early May accused Beijing of reneging on commitments to change its ways of doing business with the rest of the world. The US raised tariffs on Chinese imports and threatened new ones, and China retaliated. The escalation has rattled global financial markets and wiped out more than $1.5 trillion in investments worldwide, stoking fears of a global downturn. Trump said on Thursday he would meet President Xi Jinping at a G20 leaders' summit late this month and decide afterwards whether to hit Beijing with more tariffs. With much of the world economy still recovering from the global financial crisis a decade ago, the focus is shifting to how much dry powder central banks have left to battle the next downturn. US Federal Reserve policymakers have hinted they would be ready to cut interest rates and the European Central Bank on Thursday opened the door to more stimulus if needed. The International Monetary Fund on Wednesday warned that current and threatened US-China tariffs could cut global economic output by 0.5 per cent in 2020. IMF Managing Director Christine Lagarde told Reuters that while there was no imminent threat of a global recession, such tariff threats and trade wars were "self-inflicted wounds" that must be avoided. While the G20 communique is set to maintain the view that global growth will pick up through next year, some policymakers may flag growing risks when they speak on the sidelines of the meeting. "There's not much the G20 can do to ease Sino-US trade tensions because Washington doesn't see benefit in fixing problems under a multilateral framework," said Takahide Kiuchi, a former Bank of Japan board member who is now an executive economist at Nomura Research Institute. "If the G20 finance leaders can't talk about trade, it means they can't engage in substantial debate on the most imminent threat to the global economy."

Trade war, tariff threats to challenge G20 finance leaders' solidarity

Finance chiefs of the Group of 20 major economies meeting in the Japanese city of Fukuoka debated Saturday over how to revise tax systems to ensure big companies pay their fair share and support economies as global growth slows.

G20 finance ministers debate taxation reforms

China's central bank chief said Friday the country has <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explainer-us-china-trade-war-the-levers-they-can-pull-224809">plenty of policy tools left to handle the trade war</a> with the United States.

There is "tremendous" room to counter the deepening trade war, People's Bank of China governor Yi Gang said in an interview with Bloomberg TV.

"We have plenty of room in interest rates, we have plenty of room in required reserve ratio rate, and also for the fiscal, monetary policy toolkit, I think the room for adjustment is tremendous," Yi said on Bloomberg TV.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-its-companies-on-us-travel-rebuffs-trade-criticism-224200">Ties between China and the US</a> have deteriorated sharply after trade negotiations stalled last month without a deal to lift bruising tariffs on goods worth $360 billion in two-way trade.

China said Thursday that it would soon release detailed information about a planned blacklist of "unreliable" foreign companies and individuals, that analysts expect will target firms cutting off supplies to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-us-china-row-huawei-signs-deal-with-russian-telecom-company-mts-to-develop-5g-network-224867">Chinese tech giant Huawei</a>.

Last month the US Commerce Department placed Huawei and dozens of its affiliates on an "entity list" on grounds of national security, curbing its access to crucial US-made components and software -- through a 90-day reprieve was later issued.

Yi has participated in several rounds of the trade negotiations with Washington and is scheduled to meet with US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin this weekend during the G20 gathering of financial policymakers in Japan.

He said the meeting with Mnuchin would be "productive talk, as always," but trade war discussions would be "uncertain and difficult", according to Bloomberg News.

Watch: IMF's Lagarde warns of 'growing concerns' over trade tensions

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China's yuan, or renminbi, the currency has also rapidly depreciated against the dollar as trade tensions have ramped up in recent weeks, nearing the critical seven to the dollar exchange rate.

The central bank has long prevented the yuan from falling below seven, but Yi hinted the bank may no longer defend the currency at that level.

"I don't think along this mathematical scale any number is more important (than) the other number," he said.

"The trade war would have a temporary depreciation pressure on the renminbi, but you see, after the noise, (the) renminbi will continue to be very stable and relatively strong compared to emerging market currencies, even compared to convertible currencies," he told Bloomberg TV.

"I'm very confident (the) renminbi will continue to be stable at a more or less equilibrium level," Yi said.

China's central bank chief said Friday the country has plenty of policy tools left to handle the trade war with the United States. There is "tremendous" room to counter the deepening trade war, People's Bank of China governor Yi Gang said in an interview with Bloomberg TV.

China's central bank chief said Friday the country has plenty of policy tools left to handle the trade war with the United States. There is "tremendous" room to counter the deepening trade war, People's Bank of China governor Yi Gang said in an interview with Bloomberg TV. "We have plenty of room in interest rates, we have plenty of room in required reserve ratio rate, and also for the fiscal, monetary policy toolkit, I think the room for adjustment is tremendous," Yi said on Bloomberg TV. Ties between China and the US have deteriorated sharply after trade negotiations stalled last month without a deal to lift bruising tariffs on goods worth $360 billion in two-way trade. China said Thursday that it would soon release detailed information about a planned blacklist of "unreliable" foreign companies and individuals, that analysts expect will target firms cutting off supplies to Chinese tech giant Huawei. Last month the US Commerce Department placed Huawei and dozens of its affiliates on an "entity list" on grounds of national security, curbing its access to crucial US-made components and software -- through a 90-day reprieve was later issued. Yi has participated in several rounds of the trade negotiations with Washington and is scheduled to meet with US Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin this weekend during the G20 gathering of financial policymakers in Japan. He said the meeting with Mnuchin would be "productive talk, as always," but trade war discussions would be "uncertain and difficult", according to Bloomberg News. Watch: IMF's Lagarde warns of 'growing concerns' over trade tensions × China's yuan, or renminbi, the currency has also rapidly depreciated against the dollar as trade tensions have ramped up in recent weeks, nearing the critical seven to the dollar exchange rate. The central bank has long prevented the yuan from falling below seven, but Yi hinted the bank may no longer defend the currency at that level. "I don't think along this mathematical scale any number is more important (than) the other number," he said. "The trade war would have a temporary depreciation pressure on the renminbi, but you see, after the noise, (the) renminbi will continue to be very stable and relatively strong compared to emerging market currencies, even compared to convertible currencies," he told Bloomberg TV. "I'm very confident (the) renminbi will continue to be stable at a more or less equilibrium level," Yi said.

China has tools to handle trade war with US: Central bank chief Yi Gang

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday called for strengthening ties with India as part of 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific.' He said this in a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-to-buy-105-f-35-us-stealth-warplanes-donald-trump-221898">press conference standing along with US President Donald Trump</a> who is on a state visit to the Asian country.

Abe said, "We will expand and enhance our efforts on free and open Indo-Pacific with India, Australia and ASEAN countries."

Abe, who shares close ties with PM-designate Narendra Modi, was the first foreign leader to congratulate the latter after his landslide victory in India's 17th general election.

Abe and Modi will be meeting on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Japan from June 28 to 29.

The Shinzo Abe will also be visiting India later this year for the 14th India Japan Annual Summit that alternates its location between India and Japan.&nbsp;

Last year PM Modi visited Japan for the 13th Annual Summit during which the East Asian country announced that it will join New Delhi led International Solar Alliance and signed a Currency Swap Agreement.

US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trade-beef-aside-trump-and-abe-bond-over-burgers-sumo-and-golf-221840">Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe</a> held a joint press conference after holding talks.

While Trump stated that US ties with Japan have never been better, Abe said he is determined to show the strength of US-Japan ties to the world.

Trump said that even though there exists an "imbalance" in trade with Japan, the same should be resolved over time.

"I think we will be announcing some things, probably in August, that will be very good for both countries."&nbsp;

Trump and Abe are slated to meet again for the G20 Summit to be held in Osaka, Japan this year. &nbsp;

The two leaders met in Tokyo and discussed a range of issues from Iran, North Korea to bilateral trade.&nbsp;

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday called for strengthening ties with India as part of 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific.' He said this in a press conference standing along with US President Donald Trump who is on a state visit to the Asian country.

Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Monday called for strengthening ties with India as part of 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific.' He said this in a press conference standing along with US President Donald Trump who is on a state visit to the Asian country. Abe said, "We will expand and enhance our efforts on free and open Indo-Pacific with India, Australia and ASEAN countries." Abe, who shares close ties with PM-designate Narendra Modi, was the first foreign leader to congratulate the latter after his landslide victory in India's 17th general election. Abe and Modi will be meeting on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Japan from June 28 to 29. The Shinzo Abe will also be visiting India later this year for the 14th India Japan Annual Summit that alternates its location between India and Japan. Last year PM Modi visited Japan for the 13th Annual Summit during which the East Asian country announced that it will join New Delhi led International Solar Alliance and signed a Currency Swap Agreement. US President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe held a joint press conference after holding talks. While Trump stated that US ties with Japan have never been better, Abe said he is determined to show the strength of US-Japan ties to the world. Trump said that even though there exists an "imbalance" in trade with Japan, the same should be resolved over time. "I think we will be announcing some things, probably in August, that will be very good for both countries." Trump and Abe are slated to meet again for the G20 Summit to be held in Osaka, Japan this year. The two leaders met in Tokyo and discussed a range of issues from Iran, North Korea to bilateral trade.

Japan PM Shinzo Abe calls for strengthening ties with India

The Kremlin said on Sunday it hopes a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump takes place, but that it has not received a definitive decision from Washington on the matter, Interfax news agency reported.

"We know that Trump has spoken of his desire for a meeting, but unfortunately we also know that (US Secretary of State Mike) <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-meets-pompeo-as-us-seeks-a-way-forward-in-ties-218663">Pompeo did not bring any concrete proposals</a> about organising such a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 meeting in Osaka," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was cited as saying.

Meanwhile, a Kremlin aide said on Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin is open to a new meeting with US President Donald Trump if Moscow receives a formal proposal for such an encounter. The remark came after Putin held talks with US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo.

Trump on Monday said he planned to meet Putin on the sidelines of a meeting of G20 nations in Japan next month, but the Kremlin said it had not yet received any formal request from Washington for such a meeting.

Yuri Ushakov, the Kremlin aide, said Putin's meeting with Pompeo at the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi had not yielded any breakthrough but had been held in a business-like atmosphere.

The Kremlin said on Sunday it hopes a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump takes place, but that it has not received a definitive decision from Washington on the matter, Interfax news agency reported.

The Kremlin said on Sunday it hopes a meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Donald Trump takes place, but that it has not received a definitive decision from Washington on the matter, Interfax news agency reported. "We know that Trump has spoken of his desire for a meeting, but unfortunately we also know that (US Secretary of State Mike) Pompeo did not bring any concrete proposals about organising such a meeting on the sidelines of the G20 meeting in Osaka," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov was cited as saying. Meanwhile, a Kremlin aide said on Tuesday that Russian President Vladimir Putin is open to a new meeting with US President Donald Trump if Moscow receives a formal proposal for such an encounter. The remark came after Putin held talks with US Secretary of state Mike Pompeo. Trump on Monday said he planned to meet Putin on the sidelines of a meeting of G20 nations in Japan next month, but the Kremlin said it had not yet received any formal request from Washington for such a meeting. Yuri Ushakov, the Kremlin aide, said Putin's meeting with Pompeo at the Russian Black Sea resort of Sochi had not yielded any breakthrough but had been held in a business-like atmosphere.

Kremlin waiting for US decision on Putin-Trump meeting: Report

US President Donald Trump said on Monday that he will meet Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin at the G20 gathering in Japan next month. Trump said he expects his discussion with Xi to be "very fruitful", as the trade war between China and the United States intensified this week.

Donald Trump says he will meet China's Xi Jinping at G20 next month

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday meets US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in the highest-level talks between the rival powers in nearly a year as they see if they can make headway on a raft of disagreements from Venezuela to Iran to arms control.

Pompeo will visit Putin in the Black Sea resort of Sochi less than two weeks after President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-will-meet-putin-xi-at-g20-summit-in-japan-says-well-be-very-fruitfull-meeting-218514">Donald Trump voiced optimism</a> about improving relations with Moscow during a more than one-hour telephone conversation with the Russian leader.

The renewed diplomacy followed the long-awaited report in the United States by investigator Robert Mueller which found that Russia interfered in the 2016 election but that the Trump campaign did not collude with Moscow, partially lifting a cloud that had hung over the mogul-turned-president for two years.

Pompeo is the highest-ranking US official to see Putin since July when Trump met him in Helsinki and stunned the US political class by appearing to accept the Russian leader's statement at face value that he did not meddle in the US election.

Trump on Monday announced that he expected a "very fruitful meeting" with Putin and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Japan, only for Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov to deny Washington had requested such a meeting and say there were "no agreements so far."

Trump's enthusiasm for courting Putin has little support in Washington, even within his own administration, which has kept up a campaign of pressure including sanctions on Russia over alleged election meddling and Moscow's support for armed separatists in Ukraine.

Pompeo, despite his close relationship with Trump, left little doubt on where he stood in remarks Saturday in California.

Addressing the conservative Claremont Institute, Pompeo said that US policymakers in recent decades had "drifted from realism" and chastised them for believing that "enfolding the likes of China and Russia into a so-called rules-based international order would hasten their domestic evolution towards democracy."

"But we can see now 30 years on, after the end of the Cold War, that the Putin regime slays dissidents in cold blood and invades its neighbours," Pompeo said, three days before he sees the Russian president.

'Frank' talks on Iran

Pompeo cancelled a stop in Moscow scheduled Monday to meet with European foreign ministers in Brussels, who have been uncomfortable with the hawkish direction of the United States, especially on Iran.

The United States has pulled out of a nuclear deal backed by the Europeans, Russia and China and instead has slapped sweeping sanctions on Iran in an all-out effort to curb Tehran's regional clout.

In recent days the United States has ramped up the pressure by deploying to the region an aircraft carrier strike group and nuclear-capable bombers, warning vaguely of imminent threats from Iran, which UN inspectors say is complying with the 2015 accord.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said he would have a "frank conversation" with Pompeo on Iran on Tuesday, saying he expected the top US diplomat was pressuring the Europeans to reject Iranian overtures for relief from US sanctions.

"We will try to clarify with Pompeo how the Americans plan to get out of this crisis, which was created by their unilateral decisions," Lavrov told reporters as he met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Sochi on Monday.

Both the United States and Russia hope to make some progress on arms control, with Moscow seeking a five-year extension of the New START treaty, which caps the number of nuclear warheads well below Cold War limits and is set to expire in 2021.

"As before, we are ready to discuss this topic with the Americans," Lavrov said.

But negotiations could be tough, with Trump calling for the treaty to be expanded to include a rising China.

The Trump administration earlier this year pulled out of another key arms control agreement, the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces treaty, with NATO allies saying a new Russian missile system was in violation.

Seeking stability

Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov voiced hope that Pompeo's visit would build on the telephone call with Trump and "somewhat stabilise" the relationship.

But he acknowledged that talks could be "very difficult" on Venezuela.

"The positions of the two sides are diametrically opposed, but we should still use the opportunity to let our position be known to the US administration," the Interfax news agency quoted Ryabkov as saying.

The United States has been trying for more than three months to topple President Nicolas Maduro, a leftist firebrand whose re-election was widely criticised for irregularities, and Pompeo has repeatedly blamed Russia for giving him a lifeline.

Trump, however, contradicted Pompeo after his phone call with Putin, saying the Russian president assured him that Moscow is not involved in Venezuela.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday meets US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in the highest-level talks between the rival powers in nearly a year as they see if they can make headway on a raft of disagreements from Venezuela to Iran to arms control.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday meets US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in the highest-level talks between the rival powers in nearly a year as they see if they can make headway on a raft of disagreements from Venezuela to Iran to arms control. Pompeo will visit Putin in the Black Sea resort of Sochi less than two weeks after President Donald Trump voiced optimism about improving relations with Moscow during a more than one-hour telephone conversation with the Russian leader. The renewed diplomacy followed the long-awaited report in the United States by investigator Robert Mueller which found that Russia interfered in the 2016 election but that the Trump campaign did not collude with Moscow, partially lifting a cloud that had hung over the mogul-turned-president for two years. Pompeo is the highest-ranking US official to see Putin since July when Trump met him in Helsinki and stunned the US political class by appearing to accept the Russian leader's statement at face value that he did not meddle in the US election. Trump on Monday announced that he expected a "very fruitful meeting" with Putin and Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Japan, only for Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov to deny Washington had requested such a meeting and say there were "no agreements so far." Trump's enthusiasm for courting Putin has little support in Washington, even within his own administration, which has kept up a campaign of pressure including sanctions on Russia over alleged election meddling and Moscow's support for armed separatists in Ukraine. Pompeo, despite his close relationship with Trump, left little doubt on where he stood in remarks Saturday in California. Addressing the conservative Claremont Institute, Pompeo said that US policymakers in recent decades had "drifted from realism" and chastised them for believing that "enfolding the likes of China and Russia into a so-called rules-based international order would hasten their domestic evolution towards democracy." "But we can see now 30 years on, after the end of the Cold War, that the Putin regime slays dissidents in cold blood and invades its neighbours," Pompeo said, three days before he sees the Russian president. 'Frank' talks on Iran Pompeo cancelled a stop in Moscow scheduled Monday to meet with European foreign ministers in Brussels, who have been uncomfortable with the hawkish direction of the United States, especially on Iran. The United States has pulled out of a nuclear deal backed by the Europeans, Russia and China and instead has slapped sweeping sanctions on Iran in an all-out effort to curb Tehran's regional clout. In recent days the United States has ramped up the pressure by deploying to the region an aircraft carrier strike group and nuclear-capable bombers, warning vaguely of imminent threats from Iran, which UN inspectors say is complying with the 2015 accord. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said he would have a "frank conversation" with Pompeo on Iran on Tuesday, saying he expected the top US diplomat was pressuring the Europeans to reject Iranian overtures for relief from US sanctions. "We will try to clarify with Pompeo how the Americans plan to get out of this crisis, which was created by their unilateral decisions," Lavrov told reporters as he met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Sochi on Monday. Both the United States and Russia hope to make some progress on arms control, with Moscow seeking a five-year extension of the New START treaty, which caps the number of nuclear warheads well below Cold War limits and is set to expire in 2021. "As before, we are ready to discuss this topic with the Americans," Lavrov said. But negotiations could be tough, with Trump calling for the treaty to be expanded to include a rising China. The Trump administration earlier this year pulled out of another key arms control agreement, the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces treaty, with NATO allies saying a new Russian missile system was in violation. Seeking stability Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov voiced hope that Pompeo's visit would build on the telephone call with Trump and "somewhat stabilise" the relationship. But he acknowledged that talks could be "very difficult" on Venezuela. "The positions of the two sides are diametrically opposed, but we should still use the opportunity to let our position be known to the US administration," the Interfax news agency quoted Ryabkov as saying. The United States has been trying for more than three months to topple President Nicolas Maduro, a leftist firebrand whose re-election was widely criticised for irregularities, and Pompeo has repeatedly blamed Russia for giving him a lifeline. Trump, however, contradicted Pompeo after his phone call with Putin, saying the Russian president assured him that Moscow is not involved in Venezuela.

US, Russia test tense ties as Mike Pompeo visits Russian President Vladimir Putin

The&nbsp;Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday stepped-up its attack on the opposition and asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clarify on the meeting he had with the G20 envoys on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Speaking with the media in Delhi today, Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad asked if Gandhi presented India's stand to the envoys or the opposition's.

"Rahul Gandhi yesterday met ambassadors of G20 countries, what did he disclose to them about Pulwama attack and the AirStrikes? Did he convey to them the view of the country, Govt or Congress' view? Every day they're questioning air strikes, he needs to explain it to the country," Prasad told reporters.&nbsp;

Ahead of Lok Sabha elections, top Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh shared the party's economic and political vision with ambassadors of G20 member-countries at a meeting on Wednesday, during which the Pulwama attack and the subsequent developments were also discussed, news agency PTI reported.

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RS Prasad: Rahul Gandhi y'day met ambassadors of G20 countries, what did he disclose to them about Pulwama attack &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AirStrikes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AirStrikes</a>? Did he convey to them the view of the country, Govt or Congress' view. everyday they're questioning air strikes, he needs to explain it to the country. <a href="https://t.co/n7uPpjMXfd">pic.twitter.com/n7uPpjMXfd</a>
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The Pakistan High Commissioner was not invited to the meet which was attended by the ambassadors of the United States and China, the UK High Commissioner among others.

Sources said the Pulwama attack and the consequent air strikes were also learnt to have been discussed during the meeting, as the diplomats were curious about how the developments will play out in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. They also sought to know its effect on the stability of the region, PTI reported.

The meet, held at a local hotel, was earlier slated for February 15 and had been cancelled in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack on February 14. 
Rahul Gandhi later tweeted out saying he enjoyed the exchange of ideas and looked forward to continuing the dialogue with the envoys.&nbsp;

(With inputs from PTI)&nbsp;

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday stepped-up its attack on the opposition and asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clarify on the meeting he had with the G20 envoys on Wednesday.

The Bharatiya Janata Party on Thursday stepped-up its attack on the opposition and asked Congress president Rahul Gandhi to clarify on the meeting he had with the G20 envoys on Wednesday. Speaking with the media in Delhi today, Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad asked if Gandhi presented India's stand to the envoys or the opposition's. "Rahul Gandhi yesterday met ambassadors of G20 countries, what did he disclose to them about Pulwama attack and the AirStrikes? Did he convey to them the view of the country, Govt or Congress' view? Every day they're questioning air strikes, he needs to explain it to the country," Prasad told reporters. Ahead of Lok Sabha elections, top Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Sonia Gandhi and Manmohan Singh shared the party's economic and political vision with ambassadors of G20 member-countries at a meeting on Wednesday, during which the Pulwama attack and the subsequent developments were also discussed, news agency PTI reported. RS Prasad: Rahul Gandhi y'day met ambassadors of G20 countries, what did he disclose to them about Pulwama attack & #AirStrikes? Did he convey to them the view of the country, Govt or Congress' view. everyday they're questioning air strikes, he needs to explain it to the country. pic.twitter.com/n7uPpjMXfd — ANI (@ANI) March 7, 2019 × The Pakistan High Commissioner was not invited to the meet which was attended by the ambassadors of the United States and China, the UK High Commissioner among others. Sources said the Pulwama attack and the consequent air strikes were also learnt to have been discussed during the meeting, as the diplomats were curious about how the developments will play out in the upcoming Lok Sabha elections. They also sought to know its effect on the stability of the region, PTI reported. The meet, held at a local hotel, was earlier slated for February 15 and had been cancelled in the wake of the Pulwama terror attack on February 14. Rahul Gandhi later tweeted out saying he enjoyed the exchange of ideas and looked forward to continuing the dialogue with the envoys. (With inputs from PTI)

'What did he disclose on Pulwama, Balakot strikes?' BJP asks Rahul to clarify on meeting with G20 envoys

By Rejeanne Lacroix

Last year, the 70-year-long territorial dispute between Russia and Japan over the Kuril Islands again rose to prominence. On September 12, at an economic development conference in Vladivostok, Russian President Vladimir Putin extended the surprising offer to mutually resolve the quarrel to his Japanese counterpart, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. From this point, a flurry of diplomatic engagements, such as the November 14 meeting in Singapore and a Putin-Abe tete-a-tete on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, gained significant meaning. High-level discourse is expected to continue for the foreseeable future, with Russian and Japanese foreign ministers meeting on January 14, and special envoys focused on a peace treaty to officially put an end to World War II have been established.

Much of this fresh urgency to resolve the decades-long territorial dispute presents hypothetical scenarios that a peace accord could follow. It is easy to fall into a trap that such an extended disagreement could be solved speedily and opportunely.&nbsp;

Diplomatic efforts seeking mutually acceptable solutions dotted the 20th century, and the title to the Kuril Islands remains an elusive political dilemma. Impediments to a Russo-Japanese agreement are more palpable in the current international order, with security a key factor.

Past diplomatic attempts

The Southern Kurils — or Chishima Retto, known as the Northern Territories in Japan — is a small segment of Russia’s Far-Eastern Sakhalin region. Both Russia and Japan claim sovereignty over the islands as they are located in the Sea of Okhotsk between northern Hokkaido and southern Kamchatka. Nonetheless, it is important to note that Japan unequivocally claims its rights to Iturup, Habomai, Kunashir and Shikotan islands of the archipelago.

In the waning days of World War II, the Soviet army captured the now-contested islands during the Kuril Landing Operation that took place between August 18 and September 1, 1945. Ensuing international efforts attempted to regulate a world order thrown into disarray by years of conflict and resolve the numerous questions over sovereignty in the postwar period. The Yalta Agreement (February 1945), the Potsdam Declaration (July 1945) and the Treaty of San Francisco (September 1951) provided elementary diplomatic resources for managing questions over the Kuril Islands, but they were vague and politically tarnished.

For instance, the Japanese disagreed with the indistinct wording in its terms of surrender, signed at Potsdam, which stated that “Japanese sovereignty shall be limited to the islands of Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, Shikoku and such minor islands as we determine.” Further, the previous agreement in Yalta, in which it was ordered the Kuril Islands be transferred to the Soviet Union, became obsolete by the time Cold War rhetoric entrenched the Allied-Japanese peace treaty in San Francisco.

On October 19, 1956, the USSR and Japan signed the Soviet-Japanese Joint Declaration. This is an important document in regard to contemporary diplomatic undertakings, as it has been offered as the basis for a resolution. Article 9 states that the Soviet Union — succeeded now by the Russian Federation — agreed to transfer the islands of Habomai and Shikotan after the conclusion of a peace treaty. Notably missing from the arrangement are the other islands of Iturup and Kunashir. As a result, it was assumed that Japan abandoned its claims to these lands, resulting in interference by the United States. Unwilling to cede an inch&nbsp;to the USSR, Washington leveraged that if the Japanese signed the two islands over to the Soviets, the Americans would retain Okinawa. No deal could be finalized under such a coercive arrangement.

In 1960, Japan and the United States signed the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security. The US adopted the role of guarantor of Japanese security and laid the foundations for continued American military presence in the Pacific. An angered Moscow reacted by rescinding any agreements previously made to transfer Habomai and Shikotan to Japanese jurisdiction. This position would stand as long as foreign military installations and forces operated on Japanese territory. The influence of the United States foreshadows the stumbling blocks to a Russo-Japanese deal today.

Disparate demands

Many variables that hindered a resolution to the Kuril Islands dispute remain at the centre of contemporary diplomatic hurdles. Japan demands that questions over sovereignty must be addressed prior to any discussions of land exchange. Abe firmly stated this sentiment after the offer he made in Vladivostok in September. Tokyo brings a historical geographic case, while Moscow argues that the islands were absorbed into Russian territory as part of its wartime operations and postwar agreements. Matters of sovereignty must be resolved. However, a more pressing query must be handled first: Which components of the Pacific security framework are up for negotiation in a state of geopolitical mistrust between Russia and the United States?

Both countries find themselves in a situation where neither will wholly achieve its desired objectives. Abe stated that he is determined to facilitate negotiations on a peace treaty when he meets with Putin. Further, there are reports that Tokyo seeks to waive Russia’s responsibility to pay compensation over the displacement of Japanese citizens that once inhabited the islands. This is a positive and conciliatory development in solving the historic disagreement, however, it assumes that Russia would relinquish its claims to sovereignty over the islands before effective negotiations are complete. This clashes with Moscow’s long-stated assessment that Japan must accept the current arrangement, which is backed by international law. As sovereignty remains at the core of Japan’s claims, unless some great diplomatic feat is accomplished, issues that stymied resolution in the past will persist.

Nevertheless, Japan must negotiate under the influence of its close relationship and security pact with the United States. Putin recently asserted that US military involvement in Japan complicates any forthcoming agreement and expressed his concerns over the strategic use of an American air defense system in Japan. Abe contends that a Kuril Islands peace treaty would have a positive overall effect on the security framework of the Asia-Pacific region, which would be most beneficial to the United States. While this sounds advantageous to the Japanese public and officials in Washington, it does little to stimulate concessions from Moscow. Russia will be steadfast in its demands that the exchanged territories be exempt from the US-Japan security treaty, and that Habomai and Shikotan are off-limits to military development. This would see a continuance of rhetoric like that in Eastern Europe, where Moscow voices its displeasure of US military installations in bordering states.

As a result, Japanese concessions to Russian demands are unlikely when their guarantor of security is the United States. Mutual mistrust between Washington and Moscow under the shadow of the current geopolitical atmosphere means that Tokyo is in a difficult position to negotiate freely. Abe can speak optimistically about the security advantages in store for America. However, Russian lawmakers, such as Senator Frants Klintsevich, in turn argue in favor of preserving Russian borders and security in “broad terms.” Additionally, subsequent and separate Japanese-American discussions would be required if the two states conclusively decide to omit Habomai and Shikotan from the coverage of the security treaty. Not only is this unlikely, but it would extend the diplomatic effort needed to settle the Kuril Islands stalemate in its entirety.

Russia must also negotiate carefully. Recent precedents, such as the transfer of Tarabarov Island and a part of Bolshoy Ussuriysky Island to China in 2004 demonstrate that Moscow is capable of settling decades-old land claims. It was during this timeframe that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov subsequently extended an offer to exchange small islands in the Kuril chain for a peace treaty with Japan. Nevertheless, the political climate was more optimistic then, and American influence over Asia-Pacific security was inapplicable to that situation.

While Japanese public opinion strongly supports the recuperation of its perceived territory, Russian polling demonstrates a robust dissatisfaction were Moscow to relinquish sovereignty of the Kuril Islands. Residents of the Sakhalin region are markedly in disagreement with any proposed exchange of sovereignty. Since the official announcements to reopen the issue emerged, citizens have sent letters to Putin, and the local branch of the Communist Party organized a protest. Any sort of finalized Russo-Japanese peace treaty without consulting the affected population will be an additional example of the Russian Far East feeling further disconnected from Moscow. Authorities focus on the economic potential of the region and thus give adequate attention to these matters. However, it seems as though little thought is directed toward deeper disenfranchisement in the Far East if a settlement is reached.

Island-scale militarisation

Japan stresses that the Kuril Islands must be demilitarised if any serious proposals are to come to fruition. That is a lofty demand. Moscow’s security outlook incorporates strategic use of the isles as a part of its Pacific defence operations. In this case, Moscow follows its evident modus operandi of establishing military installations in disputed areas. While not a part of Russia proper like the Kuril Islands, Russia established military bases in South Ossetia and Abkhazia under similar pretences. Use of this tactic enhances the reach of Moscow’s security framework from the mainland and, in this case, the Pacific region.

US involvement in the Pacific, as well as ongoing security concerns in the region, provides Russia with strong arguments to only accept a deal that protects its interests and security. Subsequently, it is safe to predict that Russia will stick to the claim that its sovereignty over the South Kurils is non-negotiable, as Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reiterated today, and a settlement to the dispute does not mean any territory will be exchanged.

While touting Russian Arctic military capabilities, Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu recently noted the continued construction of military infrastructure on the Kurils. This is part of a steady Russification of the lands and falls in step with previous Russian government announcements. For example, on February 10, 2011, then-President Dmitry Medvedev instructed that sophisticated weaponry be deployed to the offshore bases as part of an overall security plan for greater Russia. Following this, in 2016, it was announced that the Kremlin would deploy Bal and Bastion rocket systems on Iturup and utilize Eleron-3 drones for the purposes of Pacific defense. Thus, a complete demilitarization of the South Kurils where Russia would retain command seems unlikely. This will be one of those hurdles where vast differences hinder a peace accord that leaves both parties satisfied.

Russia and Japan have disparate views on the Kuril Islands that can only be overcome through significant concessions. A singular view of sovereignty must be acknowledged prior to any handover of territory. However, this is a primary roadblock. Neither state wants to back down from its title even under the umbrella of the 1956 Soviet-Japanese Joint Declaration as the mutual baseline for discussion. The current global political atmosphere adds yet another confounding layer to the security arrangements established in the region.

A renewed interest in finally achieving peace after 70 years of the territorial standoff is an admirable undertaking, but it would be foolish to think entitlement to the Kuril Islands could be achieved either quickly or smoothly. Russia and Japan will understandably argue in favour of a resolution that does not infringe upon their respective national security plans or demands. Each state will have its set limits where security trumps any exchange of ownership. In the end, diplomacy is fluid, and one can reticently hope for a viable outcome to a postwar problem.

(Rejeanne Lacroix is a Canadian independent researcher focusing on international security and the post-Soviet space)

(This article was originally published on The Fair Observer. Read the <a href="https://www.fairobserver.com/region/asia_pacific/japan-russia-kuril-islands-dispute-asia-pacific-security-news-17551/">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

By Rejeanne Lacroix Last year, the 70-year-long territorial dispute between Russia and Japan over the Kuril Islands again rose to prominence. On September 12, at an economic development conference in Vladivostok, Russian President Vladimir Putin extended the surprising offer to mutually resolve the quarrel to his Japanese counterpart, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

By Rejeanne Lacroix Last year, the 70-year-long territorial dispute between Russia and Japan over the Kuril Islands again rose to prominence. On September 12, at an economic development conference in Vladivostok, Russian President Vladimir Putin extended the surprising offer to mutually resolve the quarrel to his Japanese counterpart, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. From this point, a flurry of diplomatic engagements, such as the November 14 meeting in Singapore and a Putin-Abe tete-a-tete on the sidelines of the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, gained significant meaning. High-level discourse is expected to continue for the foreseeable future, with Russian and Japanese foreign ministers meeting on January 14, and special envoys focused on a peace treaty to officially put an end to World War II have been established. Much of this fresh urgency to resolve the decades-long territorial dispute presents hypothetical scenarios that a peace accord could follow. It is easy to fall into a trap that such an extended disagreement could be solved speedily and opportunely. Diplomatic efforts seeking mutually acceptable solutions dotted the 20th century, and the title to the Kuril Islands remains an elusive political dilemma. Impediments to a Russo-Japanese agreement are more palpable in the current international order, with security a key factor. Past diplomatic attempts The Southern Kurils — or Chishima Retto, known as the Northern Territories in Japan — is a small segment of Russia’s Far-Eastern Sakhalin region. Both Russia and Japan claim sovereignty over the islands as they are located in the Sea of Okhotsk between northern Hokkaido and southern Kamchatka. Nonetheless, it is important to note that Japan unequivocally claims its rights to Iturup, Habomai, Kunashir and Shikotan islands of the archipelago. In the waning days of World War II, the Soviet army captured the now-contested islands during the Kuril Landing Operation that took place between August 18 and September 1, 1945. Ensuing international efforts attempted to regulate a world order thrown into disarray by years of conflict and resolve the numerous questions over sovereignty in the postwar period. The Yalta Agreement (February 1945), the Potsdam Declaration (July 1945) and the Treaty of San Francisco (September 1951) provided elementary diplomatic resources for managing questions over the Kuril Islands, but they were vague and politically tarnished. For instance, the Japanese disagreed with the indistinct wording in its terms of surrender, signed at Potsdam, which stated that “Japanese sovereignty shall be limited to the islands of Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, Shikoku and such minor islands as we determine.” Further, the previous agreement in Yalta, in which it was ordered the Kuril Islands be transferred to the Soviet Union, became obsolete by the time Cold War rhetoric entrenched the Allied-Japanese peace treaty in San Francisco. On October 19, 1956, the USSR and Japan signed the Soviet-Japanese Joint Declaration. This is an important document in regard to contemporary diplomatic undertakings, as it has been offered as the basis for a resolution. Article 9 states that the Soviet Union — succeeded now by the Russian Federation — agreed to transfer the islands of Habomai and Shikotan after the conclusion of a peace treaty. Notably missing from the arrangement are the other islands of Iturup and Kunashir. As a result, it was assumed that Japan abandoned its claims to these lands, resulting in interference by the United States. Unwilling to cede an inch to the USSR, Washington leveraged that if the Japanese signed the two islands over to the Soviets, the Americans would retain Okinawa. No deal could be finalized under such a coercive arrangement. In 1960, Japan and the United States signed the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security. The US adopted the role of guarantor of Japanese security and laid the foundations for continued American military presence in the Pacific. An angered Moscow reacted by rescinding any agreements previously made to transfer Habomai and Shikotan to Japanese jurisdiction. This position would stand as long as foreign military installations and forces operated on Japanese territory. The influence of the United States foreshadows the stumbling blocks to a Russo-Japanese deal today. Disparate demands Many variables that hindered a resolution to the Kuril Islands dispute remain at the centre of contemporary diplomatic hurdles. Japan demands that questions over sovereignty must be addressed prior to any discussions of land exchange. Abe firmly stated this sentiment after the offer he made in Vladivostok in September. Tokyo brings a historical geographic case, while Moscow argues that the islands were absorbed into Russian territory as part of its wartime operations and postwar agreements. Matters of sovereignty must be resolved. However, a more pressing query must be handled first: Which components of the Pacific security framework are up for negotiation in a state of geopolitical mistrust between Russia and the United States? Both countries find themselves in a situation where neither will wholly achieve its desired objectives. Abe stated that he is determined to facilitate negotiations on a peace treaty when he meets with Putin. Further, there are reports that Tokyo seeks to waive Russia’s responsibility to pay compensation over the displacement of Japanese citizens that once inhabited the islands. This is a positive and conciliatory development in solving the historic disagreement, however, it assumes that Russia would relinquish its claims to sovereignty over the islands before effective negotiations are complete. This clashes with Moscow’s long-stated assessment that Japan must accept the current arrangement, which is backed by international law. As sovereignty remains at the core of Japan’s claims, unless some great diplomatic feat is accomplished, issues that stymied resolution in the past will persist. Nevertheless, Japan must negotiate under the influence of its close relationship and security pact with the United States. Putin recently asserted that US military involvement in Japan complicates any forthcoming agreement and expressed his concerns over the strategic use of an American air defense system in Japan. Abe contends that a Kuril Islands peace treaty would have a positive overall effect on the security framework of the Asia-Pacific region, which would be most beneficial to the United States. While this sounds advantageous to the Japanese public and officials in Washington, it does little to stimulate concessions from Moscow. Russia will be steadfast in its demands that the exchanged territories be exempt from the US-Japan security treaty, and that Habomai and Shikotan are off-limits to military development. This would see a continuance of rhetoric like that in Eastern Europe, where Moscow voices its displeasure of US military installations in bordering states. As a result, Japanese concessions to Russian demands are unlikely when their guarantor of security is the United States. Mutual mistrust between Washington and Moscow under the shadow of the current geopolitical atmosphere means that Tokyo is in a difficult position to negotiate freely. Abe can speak optimistically about the security advantages in store for America. However, Russian lawmakers, such as Senator Frants Klintsevich, in turn argue in favor of preserving Russian borders and security in “broad terms.” Additionally, subsequent and separate Japanese-American discussions would be required if the two states conclusively decide to omit Habomai and Shikotan from the coverage of the security treaty. Not only is this unlikely, but it would extend the diplomatic effort needed to settle the Kuril Islands stalemate in its entirety. Russia must also negotiate carefully. Recent precedents, such as the transfer of Tarabarov Island and a part of Bolshoy Ussuriysky Island to China in 2004 demonstrate that Moscow is capable of settling decades-old land claims. It was during this timeframe that Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov subsequently extended an offer to exchange small islands in the Kuril chain for a peace treaty with Japan. Nevertheless, the political climate was more optimistic then, and American influence over Asia-Pacific security was inapplicable to that situation. While Japanese public opinion strongly supports the recuperation of its perceived territory, Russian polling demonstrates a robust dissatisfaction were Moscow to relinquish sovereignty of the Kuril Islands. Residents of the Sakhalin region are markedly in disagreement with any proposed exchange of sovereignty. Since the official announcements to reopen the issue emerged, citizens have sent letters to Putin, and the local branch of the Communist Party organized a protest. Any sort of finalized Russo-Japanese peace treaty without consulting the affected population will be an additional example of the Russian Far East feeling further disconnected from Moscow. Authorities focus on the economic potential of the region and thus give adequate attention to these matters. However, it seems as though little thought is directed toward deeper disenfranchisement in the Far East if a settlement is reached. Island-scale militarisation Japan stresses that the Kuril Islands must be demilitarised if any serious proposals are to come to fruition. That is a lofty demand. Moscow’s security outlook incorporates strategic use of the isles as a part of its Pacific defence operations. In this case, Moscow follows its evident modus operandi of establishing military installations in disputed areas. While not a part of Russia proper like the Kuril Islands, Russia established military bases in South Ossetia and Abkhazia under similar pretences. Use of this tactic enhances the reach of Moscow’s security framework from the mainland and, in this case, the Pacific region. US involvement in the Pacific, as well as ongoing security concerns in the region, provides Russia with strong arguments to only accept a deal that protects its interests and security. Subsequently, it is safe to predict that Russia will stick to the claim that its sovereignty over the South Kurils is non-negotiable, as Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov reiterated today, and a settlement to the dispute does not mean any territory will be exchanged. While touting Russian Arctic military capabilities, Defense Minister Sergey Shoigu recently noted the continued construction of military infrastructure on the Kurils. This is part of a steady Russification of the lands and falls in step with previous Russian government announcements. For example, on February 10, 2011, then-President Dmitry Medvedev instructed that sophisticated weaponry be deployed to the offshore bases as part of an overall security plan for greater Russia. Following this, in 2016, it was announced that the Kremlin would deploy Bal and Bastion rocket systems on Iturup and utilize Eleron-3 drones for the purposes of Pacific defense. Thus, a complete demilitarization of the South Kurils where Russia would retain command seems unlikely. This will be one of those hurdles where vast differences hinder a peace accord that leaves both parties satisfied. Russia and Japan have disparate views on the Kuril Islands that can only be overcome through significant concessions. A singular view of sovereignty must be acknowledged prior to any handover of territory. However, this is a primary roadblock. Neither state wants to back down from its title even under the umbrella of the 1956 Soviet-Japanese Joint Declaration as the mutual baseline for discussion. The current global political atmosphere adds yet another confounding layer to the security arrangements established in the region. A renewed interest in finally achieving peace after 70 years of the territorial standoff is an admirable undertaking, but it would be foolish to think entitlement to the Kuril Islands could be achieved either quickly or smoothly. Russia and Japan will understandably argue in favour of a resolution that does not infringe upon their respective national security plans or demands. Each state will have its set limits where security trumps any exchange of ownership. In the end, diplomacy is fluid, and one can reticently hope for a viable outcome to a postwar problem. (Rejeanne Lacroix is a Canadian independent researcher focusing on international security and the post-Soviet space) (This article was originally published on The Fair Observer. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Are Japan and Russia ready to resolve the Kuril Islands dispute?

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a New Year letter to his US&nbsp;counterpart Donald Trump, said on Sunday that Moscow was ready for dialogue on a "wide-ranging agenda", the Kremlin said.

At the end of November, Trump abruptly cancelled a planned meeting with Putin on the sidelines of a G20 summit in Argentina, citing tensions about Russian forces opening fire on Ukrainian navy boats and then seizing them.

"Vladimir Putin stressed that the (Russia - United States) relations are the most important factor for providing strategic stability and international security," a Kremlin statement said.

"He confirmed that Russia is open for dialogue with the USA on the most wide-ranging agenda."

In a separate letter to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Putin pledged a continuation of aid to the Syrian government and people in the "fight against terrorism, in defence of state sovereignty and territorial integrity".

Putin also sent New Year greetings to other world leaders including prime ministers Theresa May of Britain and Shinzo Abe of Japan, as well as Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Putin wished "well-being and prosperity to the British people", the Kremlin said.

Russia's embassy in London said on Friday Moscow and London had agreed to return some staff to their respective embassies after they expelled dozens of diplomats early this year.

Britain expelled 23 Russian diplomats over accusations the Kremlin was behind a nerve toxin attack in March on former double agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter in the English city of Salisbury.

Russia, which denies any involvement in the poisoning, sent home the same number of British embassy workers in retaliation.

At the end of November, Trump abruptly cancelled a planned meeting with Putin on the sidelines of a G20 summit in Argentina, citing tensions about Russian forces opening fire on Ukrainian navy boats and then seizing them.

Russian President Vladimir Putin, in a New Year letter to his US counterpart Donald Trump, said on Sunday that Moscow was ready for dialogue on a "wide-ranging agenda", the Kremlin said. At the end of November, Trump abruptly cancelled a planned meeting with Putin on the sidelines of a G20 summit in Argentina, citing tensions about Russian forces opening fire on Ukrainian navy boats and then seizing them. "Vladimir Putin stressed that the (Russia - United States) relations are the most important factor for providing strategic stability and international security," a Kremlin statement said. "He confirmed that Russia is open for dialogue with the USA on the most wide-ranging agenda." In a separate letter to Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Putin pledged a continuation of aid to the Syrian government and people in the "fight against terrorism, in defence of state sovereignty and territorial integrity". Putin also sent New Year greetings to other world leaders including prime ministers Theresa May of Britain and Shinzo Abe of Japan, as well as Chinese President Xi Jinping. Putin wished "well-being and prosperity to the British people", the Kremlin said. Russia's embassy in London said on Friday Moscow and London had agreed to return some staff to their respective embassies after they expelled dozens of diplomats early this year. Britain expelled 23 Russian diplomats over accusations the Kremlin was behind a nerve toxin attack in March on former double agent Sergei Skripal and his daughter in the English city of Salisbury. Russia, which denies any involvement in the poisoning, sent home the same number of British embassy workers in retaliation.

Putin, in New Year letter to Trump, says Moscow is open for dialogue

Indian foreign policy is in a sweet spot these days. Wooed by major powers of all hues, it can afford to work with everyone, even if at times the pulls and pressures seem contradictory.&nbsp;

This was reflected at the G20 where New Delhi managed to pull off two seemingly contradictory trilaterals. Modi met with United States President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (Japan, America and India, christened JAI) to underscore India’s firm commitment to make the Indo-Pacific a region for shared economic growth, prosperity and security.&nbsp;

The Indo-Pacific construct is now at the centre of strategic jockeying in the region and the three nations have been trying to define the exact scope of their engagement. Modi had explained India’s stand on the strategic Indo-Pacific region in his keynote address at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore in June.

&nbsp;“India does not see the Indo-Pacific Region as a strategy or as a club of limited members. Nor as a grouping that seeks to dominate,” he had said. But China’s rapid rise and the challenge it is posing to geopolitical stability is at the heart of the evolution of the Indo-Pacific and the trilateral in Argentina reinforced the desire of the three states to take it forward. Hours after the ‘JAI’ trilateral, Modi joined Chinese president Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin for another trilateral – the ‘RIC’ - the second among the three countries after a gap of 12 years. The underlying rationale for this trilateral was quite different as the three nations discussed enhancing mutual cooperation at international forums. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, “They agreed on the importance of reform and strengthening of multilateral institutions that had benefitted the world, including the United Nations, WTO and well-established as well as new global financial institutions.”

While China is the one driving ‘JAI,’ it is the Trump Administration’s challenge to the global economic order that is largely behind India’s outreach to China and Russia. The fact that New Delhi managed to pull this off is a tribute to Modi’s astute investment in managing major power relations over the last few years. This is a period of fluid partnerships and Indian diplomacy will have to be nimble enough if her interests are to be preserved. Modi’s engagements at the G-20 underline that New Delhi is capable of managing this fluidity. India’s defence diplomacy is also being shaped by this reality. 
 
By the end of this year, India would have held military exercises with all P5 countries - US, Russia, China, France and the UK. So on one hand, there is the proposed military exercise with Russia and China, on the other 'Cope India’ between the Indian and US air forces has been restarted after a gap of nine years, showcasing “US and India’s efforts and commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region.”India and Russia conducted Indo-Russia Joint Military Exercise-Indra 2018 in Madhya Pradesh last week while Indo-UK Konkan naval exercise is currently underway, off Goa, which is focusing on Anti-Air warfare, Anti-Surface Warfare, Anti-Submarine Warfare, Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) and Seamanship Evolutions.&nbsp;

The Japanese Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) is in India for a bilateral air exercise “SHINYUU Maitri-18” with the Indian Air Force (IAF). Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman is visiting the US Indo-Pacific Command in Hawaii to chart the course for the first ever India-US tri-service military exercise off the Bay of Bengal in May-June, 2019. At the same time, the armies of India and China will be resuming their annual bilateral military exercise ‘Hand in Hand’ in December. 
 
India’s defence diplomacy has become truly ‘multivector’ and it is aimed at enhancing her strategic partnerships. It is a sign of India’s growing global profile that most powers want to engage with India on military and defence issues. The more partnerships India has, the better leverage it will have within diplomacy. But it is also important to recognise the challenges that come with this. Ultimately, India will have to enhance military interoperability with like-minded countries and that’s unlikely to happen if New Delhi will continue to keep its eggs in multiple baskets. It is good to be in a position where everyone wants to befriend us, but Indian policymakers should be aware of the fundamental challenge: which of these countries would come for help in face of an existential challenge?

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-india-s-profile-is-attracting-engagement-on-military-issues-2692655">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Indian foreign policy is in a sweet spot these days. Wooed by major powers of all hues, it can afford to work with everyone, even if at times the pulls and pressures seem contradictory.

Indian foreign policy is in a sweet spot these days. Wooed by major powers of all hues, it can afford to work with everyone, even if at times the pulls and pressures seem contradictory. This was reflected at the G20 where New Delhi managed to pull off two seemingly contradictory trilaterals. Modi met with United States President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (Japan, America and India, christened JAI) to underscore India’s firm commitment to make the Indo-Pacific a region for shared economic growth, prosperity and security. The Indo-Pacific construct is now at the centre of strategic jockeying in the region and the three nations have been trying to define the exact scope of their engagement. Modi had explained India’s stand on the strategic Indo-Pacific region in his keynote address at the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore in June. “India does not see the Indo-Pacific Region as a strategy or as a club of limited members. Nor as a grouping that seeks to dominate,” he had said. But China’s rapid rise and the challenge it is posing to geopolitical stability is at the heart of the evolution of the Indo-Pacific and the trilateral in Argentina reinforced the desire of the three states to take it forward. Hours after the ‘JAI’ trilateral, Modi joined Chinese president Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin for another trilateral – the ‘RIC’ - the second among the three countries after a gap of 12 years. The underlying rationale for this trilateral was quite different as the three nations discussed enhancing mutual cooperation at international forums. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, “They agreed on the importance of reform and strengthening of multilateral institutions that had benefitted the world, including the United Nations, WTO and well-established as well as new global financial institutions.” While China is the one driving ‘JAI,’ it is the Trump Administration’s challenge to the global economic order that is largely behind India’s outreach to China and Russia. The fact that New Delhi managed to pull this off is a tribute to Modi’s astute investment in managing major power relations over the last few years. This is a period of fluid partnerships and Indian diplomacy will have to be nimble enough if her interests are to be preserved. Modi’s engagements at the G-20 underline that New Delhi is capable of managing this fluidity. India’s defence diplomacy is also being shaped by this reality. By the end of this year, India would have held military exercises with all P5 countries - US, Russia, China, France and the UK. So on one hand, there is the proposed military exercise with Russia and China, on the other 'Cope India’ between the Indian and US air forces has been restarted after a gap of nine years, showcasing “US and India’s efforts and commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region.”India and Russia conducted Indo-Russia Joint Military Exercise-Indra 2018 in Madhya Pradesh last week while Indo-UK Konkan naval exercise is currently underway, off Goa, which is focusing on Anti-Air warfare, Anti-Surface Warfare, Anti-Submarine Warfare, Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) and Seamanship Evolutions. The Japanese Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) is in India for a bilateral air exercise “SHINYUU Maitri-18” with the Indian Air Force (IAF). Defence minister Nirmala Sitharaman is visiting the US Indo-Pacific Command in Hawaii to chart the course for the first ever India-US tri-service military exercise off the Bay of Bengal in May-June, 2019. At the same time, the armies of India and China will be resuming their annual bilateral military exercise ‘Hand in Hand’ in December. India’s defence diplomacy has become truly ‘multivector’ and it is aimed at enhancing her strategic partnerships. It is a sign of India’s growing global profile that most powers want to engage with India on military and defence issues. The more partnerships India has, the better leverage it will have within diplomacy. But it is also important to recognise the challenges that come with this. Ultimately, India will have to enhance military interoperability with like-minded countries and that’s unlikely to happen if New Delhi will continue to keep its eggs in multiple baskets. It is good to be in a position where everyone wants to befriend us, but Indian policymakers should be aware of the fundamental challenge: which of these countries would come for help in face of an existential challenge? (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

India’s profile is attracting engagement on military issues

After the recent G20 summit in Argentina, it is clear that global groups do not have the ability, strength and willingness to collaborate for creating a better world.&nbsp;

World powers are hopelessly divided over several issues. The deep divisions between Russia, US, EU, China, India, the oil majors and emerging economies is creating an environment where no one can really depend on anyone else.&nbsp;

And this does not include the increasingly irrelevant United Kingdom, which is still thrashing around with the Brexit noose around its neck. &nbsp;

The relationships between all these countries will become more complex before it eases off. For decades, western powers evangelised a type of globalisation that benefitted them more than the others. As Asian economies began to realise the unjust rules that had been foisted on the world, they revolted.&nbsp;

When they demanded equal access to their markets, western countries had to step back. Much of this tussle led to the near collapse of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), which appeared to have been created only to open emerging economies while protecting western markets.&nbsp;

Despite this, countries like India, China and Brazil managed to create economic strengths that could rival, or at least threaten the control of western economies.&nbsp;

As manufacturing shifted to China and services moved to countries like India and South East Asia, Europe and the US realised the weaknesses in their own economies.&nbsp;

Western powers used WTO to attack protectionism in emerging markets for decades. It was normal for visiting delegations to demand greater access in sectors with higher FDI limits. Now, the biggest howls to protect markets are emerging from EU and US.&nbsp;

The trade war between China and the US is the most prominent symbol of such a shift in attitudes. In many ways, China is clearing the way for emerging economies to follow. Develop internal strengths that can compete with the best in the world.&nbsp;

Security is the other dimension that grabbed the attention of the G20 leaders. However, there is not much that they can do. Russia is having its way in Ukraine. Saudi Arabia continues with its illiberal ways. US is refusing to fund NATO even as the EU wonders whether it has the resources to manage its own security.&nbsp;

In such a scenario, it is important that Asia determines its own future. Long dependent and impacted by the policies of the West, it is time that it created a new Asian order for itself.&nbsp;

At the recent Horasis Asia Summit in Vietnam, the former Director General of WTO and ex-Secretary General of UNCTAD, Supachai Panitchpakdi, was emphatic about self-reliance in the region. “We need a spirit of collaboration in Asia that can allow it to overcome its differences to become a formidable force in the world,” he stated.&nbsp;

For this, Asian countries have to create new frameworks of collaboration, which allow healthy competition and cooperation. The centre of economic gravity is shifting to Asia.&nbsp;

According to IMF’s regional economic outlook, China’s growth is projected to ease to 6.6 per cent, partly reflecting the authorities’ financial, housing, and fiscal tightening measures.&nbsp;

Progress in Japan has been above potential for eight consecutive quarters and is expected to remain strong this year at 1.2 per cent. And in India, growth is expected to rebound to 7.4 per cent, following temporary disruptions related to the currency exchange initiative and the rollout of the Goods and Services Tax.

The IMF goes on to say that Asia is expected to grow by around 5½ per cent this year, accounting for nearly two-thirds of global growth, and the region remains the world’s most dynamic by a considerable margin.

Add to this, growing consuming populations. A study by Brookings points out that half the world is now middle class or wealthier and most of it will be in Asia.&nbsp;

Calculations by authors Homi Kharas and Kristofer Hamel suggest that the middle-class markets in China and India in 2030 will account for $14.1 trillion and $12.3 trillion respectively, comparable in size to a US middle-class market at that time of $15.9 trillion.

The implication is clear. Asia will lead the world consumption and thus set the tone for economic growth.&nbsp;

Several initiatives have come up in recent years to bring Asia closer together. The most important among these is the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). &nbsp;RCEP has the potential to become more than a free trade agreement and become a binding force for Asian economic giants. If negotiated in a fair manner, the agreement will enhance internal trade, investment and security linkages within Asia.&nbsp;

Several experts have cautioned India against being part of RCEP. The Indian government itself is in the process of listening to experts on the best way ahead at regional trade grouping. For India, it does make eminent sense to be an active and important voice in RCEP. This could help in creating an Asian order that decides its own future.&nbsp;

Even as the western economies resolve their internal issues, Asia has the opportunity to make the most of its resources to be the economic centre of gravity of the world.&nbsp;

(This article was originally published on DNA. Read the <a href="https://www.dnaindia.com/analysis/column-time-for-a-new-asian-order-2692343">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

&nbsp;

After the recent G20 summit in Argentina, it is clear that global groups do not have the ability, strength and willingness to collaborate for creating a better world.

After the recent G20 summit in Argentina, it is clear that global groups do not have the ability, strength and willingness to collaborate for creating a better world. World powers are hopelessly divided over several issues. The deep divisions between Russia, US, EU, China, India, the oil majors and emerging economies is creating an environment where no one can really depend on anyone else. And this does not include the increasingly irrelevant United Kingdom, which is still thrashing around with the Brexit noose around its neck. The relationships between all these countries will become more complex before it eases off. For decades, western powers evangelised a type of globalisation that benefitted them more than the others. As Asian economies began to realise the unjust rules that had been foisted on the world, they revolted. When they demanded equal access to their markets, western countries had to step back. Much of this tussle led to the near collapse of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), which appeared to have been created only to open emerging economies while protecting western markets. Despite this, countries like India, China and Brazil managed to create economic strengths that could rival, or at least threaten the control of western economies. As manufacturing shifted to China and services moved to countries like India and South East Asia, Europe and the US realised the weaknesses in their own economies. Western powers used WTO to attack protectionism in emerging markets for decades. It was normal for visiting delegations to demand greater access in sectors with higher FDI limits. Now, the biggest howls to protect markets are emerging from EU and US. The trade war between China and the US is the most prominent symbol of such a shift in attitudes. In many ways, China is clearing the way for emerging economies to follow. Develop internal strengths that can compete with the best in the world. Security is the other dimension that grabbed the attention of the G20 leaders. However, there is not much that they can do. Russia is having its way in Ukraine. Saudi Arabia continues with its illiberal ways. US is refusing to fund NATO even as the EU wonders whether it has the resources to manage its own security. In such a scenario, it is important that Asia determines its own future. Long dependent and impacted by the policies of the West, it is time that it created a new Asian order for itself. At the recent Horasis Asia Summit in Vietnam, the former Director General of WTO and ex-Secretary General of UNCTAD, Supachai Panitchpakdi, was emphatic about self-reliance in the region. “We need a spirit of collaboration in Asia that can allow it to overcome its differences to become a formidable force in the world,” he stated. For this, Asian countries have to create new frameworks of collaboration, which allow healthy competition and cooperation. The centre of economic gravity is shifting to Asia. According to IMF’s regional economic outlook, China’s growth is projected to ease to 6.6 per cent, partly reflecting the authorities’ financial, housing, and fiscal tightening measures. Progress in Japan has been above potential for eight consecutive quarters and is expected to remain strong this year at 1.2 per cent. And in India, growth is expected to rebound to 7.4 per cent, following temporary disruptions related to the currency exchange initiative and the rollout of the Goods and Services Tax. The IMF goes on to say that Asia is expected to grow by around 5½ per cent this year, accounting for nearly two-thirds of global growth, and the region remains the world’s most dynamic by a considerable margin. Add to this, growing consuming populations. A study by Brookings points out that half the world is now middle class or wealthier and most of it will be in Asia. Calculations by authors Homi Kharas and Kristofer Hamel suggest that the middle-class markets in China and India in 2030 will account for $14.1 trillion and $12.3 trillion respectively, comparable in size to a US middle-class market at that time of $15.9 trillion. The implication is clear. Asia will lead the world consumption and thus set the tone for economic growth. Several initiatives have come up in recent years to bring Asia closer together. The most important among these is the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). RCEP has the potential to become more than a free trade agreement and become a binding force for Asian economic giants. If negotiated in a fair manner, the agreement will enhance internal trade, investment and security linkages within Asia. Several experts have cautioned India against being part of RCEP. The Indian government itself is in the process of listening to experts on the best way ahead at regional trade grouping. For India, it does make eminent sense to be an active and important voice in RCEP. This could help in creating an Asian order that decides its own future. Even as the western economies resolve their internal issues, Asia has the opportunity to make the most of its resources to be the economic centre of gravity of the world. (This article was originally published on DNA. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Centre of economic gravity is shifting to Asia

At the G20 Summit, there was a high-five from Vladimir Putin. And for Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi, it was business as usual.

At home, Saudi Arabia’s media trumpeted Mohammed bin Salman’s meetings with world leaders, tweeting pictures of his encounters, which also included the presidents of South Korea, Mexico, and South Africa.

However, Western leaders appeared to avoid the crown prince during the family photo at the Group of 20 summit in Buenos Aires – after almost two months of global outrage at the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The only Arab leader there, the prince stood rather isolated at the end of the line, at times looking uncertain and nervous.

US President Donald Trump, Prince Mohammed’s most vocal backer, did not have time for a one-on-one meeting. Argentina’s President Mauricio Macri kept the prince hanging on when it came to finding time to talk.

During an informal conversation on the sidelines of the summit, French President Emmanuel Macron was overheard admonishing Mohammed, saying he “never listened”, while the crown prince tried to assure him that “it’s OK”. French officials later said the men were discussing the killing of Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul and the war in Yemen.

Similarly, British Prime Minister Theresa May opted to focus on those two topics, rather than economics and trade as her country struggles with the uncertainty of Brexit, the UK’s departure from the European Union. May insisted Riyadh needed “to build confidence that such a deplorable incident could not happen again”, referring to the Saudi team sent to Turkey to murder Khashoggi.

The message Prince Mohammed probably took home from the G20 summit was that illiberal democratic, authoritarian and autocratic leaders were happy to do business with the kingdom and the crown prince despite persistent assertions that he ordered the killing.

Trump and western Europe’s leaders appeared to play to public opinion but do nothing to threaten their relations with the kingdom. The US president also chose not to have a formal meeting with Prince Mohammed’s foremost detractor, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The crown prince may also have been heartened that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada, which Saudi Arabia had a diplomatic row with earlier this year, was the only leader to raise the Khashoggi issue during the G20’s formal proceedings.

Other US allies made clear the kingdom’s financial largesse and willingness to guarantee the flow of oil would go a long way to ensure they would choose realism above principle.

The Saudi Press Agency reported after Mohammed’s meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the crown prince pledged to meet India’s oil and petroleum product needs.

Prince Mohammed may have achieved his goal of showing Saudi Arabia – specifically himself – remained a player by attending the G20 summit, despite the storm surrounding Khashoggi’s death still raging.

But the prince is not out of the woods yet. The kingdom, eager to project itself as a regional and world power, has suffered significant damage to its reputation which will take time and hard work to repair.

Just how hard depends on whether the US Congress decides to sanction Riyadh, if the Europeans will follow suit, and on Turkey successfully pushing for an international investigation into the killing.

“We have never seen Khashoggi’s murder as a political issue,” Erdogan told a news conference in Buenos Aires. “For Turkey, the incident is and will remain a flagrant murder within the Islamic world. International public opinion will not be satisfied until all those responsible for his death are revealed.”

He described Saudi Arabia’s response to the killing as “unbelievable”.

The US Senate, meanwhile, pushed forward last week – despite opposition from Trump – with a resolution that would end American military support for the Saudi-led war in Yemen, a conflict which has cause a major humanitarian crisis.

Prince Mohammed’s case was not helped by the leak of a CIA report saying he sent 11 messages to Saud al-Qahtani – a former close aide – at the time Khashoggi was killed. However, the intelligence agency admitted it lacked direct evidence of the crown prince “issuing a kill order”.

Qahtani has been accused of overseeing the killing and been fired from his position as Mohammed’s adviser and information tsar. He has also been sanctioned by Washington.

The CIA claims Prince Mohammed told associates in August 2017 they “could possibly lure [Khashoggi] outside Saudi Arabia and make arrangements” if the Washington Post columnist refused to return to the kingdom from the US.

Nevertheless, the G20 summit suggests Prince Mohammed and the kingdom have taken their first step towards putting the Khashoggi affair behind them. Even if US lawmakers slap sanctions on the kingdom, the prince is likely to remain secure in his position as king-in-waiting.

Keeping Khashoggi in the headlines will prove increasingly difficult as it seems much of the world has signalled that it is moving on. 
 
(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

At the G20 Summit, there was a high-five from Vladimir Putin. And for Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi, it was business as usual. At home, Saudi Arabia’s media trumpeted Mohammed bin Salman’s meetings with world leaders, tweeting pictures of his encounters, which also included the presidents of South Korea, Mexico, and South Africa.

At the G20 Summit, there was a high-five from Vladimir Putin. And for Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi, it was business as usual. At home, Saudi Arabia’s media trumpeted Mohammed bin Salman’s meetings with world leaders, tweeting pictures of his encounters, which also included the presidents of South Korea, Mexico, and South Africa. However, Western leaders appeared to avoid the crown prince during the family photo at the Group of 20 summit in Buenos Aires – after almost two months of global outrage at the murder of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The only Arab leader there, the prince stood rather isolated at the end of the line, at times looking uncertain and nervous. US President Donald Trump, Prince Mohammed’s most vocal backer, did not have time for a one-on-one meeting. Argentina’s President Mauricio Macri kept the prince hanging on when it came to finding time to talk. During an informal conversation on the sidelines of the summit, French President Emmanuel Macron was overheard admonishing Mohammed, saying he “never listened”, while the crown prince tried to assure him that “it’s OK”. French officials later said the men were discussing the killing of Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul and the war in Yemen. Similarly, British Prime Minister Theresa May opted to focus on those two topics, rather than economics and trade as her country struggles with the uncertainty of Brexit, the UK’s departure from the European Union. May insisted Riyadh needed “to build confidence that such a deplorable incident could not happen again”, referring to the Saudi team sent to Turkey to murder Khashoggi. The message Prince Mohammed probably took home from the G20 summit was that illiberal democratic, authoritarian and autocratic leaders were happy to do business with the kingdom and the crown prince despite persistent assertions that he ordered the killing. Trump and western Europe’s leaders appeared to play to public opinion but do nothing to threaten their relations with the kingdom. The US president also chose not to have a formal meeting with Prince Mohammed’s foremost detractor, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The crown prince may also have been heartened that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada, which Saudi Arabia had a diplomatic row with earlier this year, was the only leader to raise the Khashoggi issue during the G20’s formal proceedings. Other US allies made clear the kingdom’s financial largesse and willingness to guarantee the flow of oil would go a long way to ensure they would choose realism above principle. The Saudi Press Agency reported after Mohammed’s meeting with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi that the crown prince pledged to meet India’s oil and petroleum product needs. Prince Mohammed may have achieved his goal of showing Saudi Arabia – specifically himself – remained a player by attending the G20 summit, despite the storm surrounding Khashoggi’s death still raging. But the prince is not out of the woods yet. The kingdom, eager to project itself as a regional and world power, has suffered significant damage to its reputation which will take time and hard work to repair. Just how hard depends on whether the US Congress decides to sanction Riyadh, if the Europeans will follow suit, and on Turkey successfully pushing for an international investigation into the killing. “We have never seen Khashoggi’s murder as a political issue,” Erdogan told a news conference in Buenos Aires. “For Turkey, the incident is and will remain a flagrant murder within the Islamic world. International public opinion will not be satisfied until all those responsible for his death are revealed.” He described Saudi Arabia’s response to the killing as “unbelievable”. The US Senate, meanwhile, pushed forward last week – despite opposition from Trump – with a resolution that would end American military support for the Saudi-led war in Yemen, a conflict which has cause a major humanitarian crisis. Prince Mohammed’s case was not helped by the leak of a CIA report saying he sent 11 messages to Saud al-Qahtani – a former close aide – at the time Khashoggi was killed. However, the intelligence agency admitted it lacked direct evidence of the crown prince “issuing a kill order”. Qahtani has been accused of overseeing the killing and been fired from his position as Mohammed’s adviser and information tsar. He has also been sanctioned by Washington. The CIA claims Prince Mohammed told associates in August 2017 they “could possibly lure [Khashoggi] outside Saudi Arabia and make arrangements” if the Washington Post columnist refused to return to the kingdom from the US. Nevertheless, the G20 summit suggests Prince Mohammed and the kingdom have taken their first step towards putting the Khashoggi affair behind them. Even if US lawmakers slap sanctions on the kingdom, the prince is likely to remain secure in his position as king-in-waiting. Keeping Khashoggi in the headlines will prove increasingly difficult as it seems much of the world has signalled that it is moving on. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

Royal road ahead: It was business as usual for Saudi Crown Prince at G20 summit

Kremlin spokesperson&nbsp;on Monday defended the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/putin-exchanges-high-five-with-saudi-crown-prince-at-g20-summit-180624">heartily high-five between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Prince Mohammed Bin Salman</a>&nbsp;saying&nbsp;that "good personal relations are the basis for effective bilateral cooperation".

He also said that Russia is interested in continuing relations with the OPEC and non-OPEC group of oil producers, and that Putin and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman discussed this issue at their meeting.

While the world leaders at the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina did not pay much heed to the Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday exchanged a high-five with him on the first day of the summit.

Putin who took the seat next to the Crown prince at the plenary session at the G20 Summit laughed heartily with him while exchanging the high-five.

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Putin's friendly behaviour towards the crown prince contrasted sharply with that of other leaders at the summit who sidelined the crown prince over the suspicious <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-was-in-constant-touch-with-khashoggi-kill-team-wsj-181054">killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate</a> in Istanbul in October.

Prince <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-sidelined-in-g20-family-photo-180611">Mohammed was also sidelined during the official "family photo" of world leaders</a> at Friday's gathering. He then quickly exited the stage without shaking hands or talking with the other leaders.

There has been rising furore regarding a Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) report that hints at Salman's hand in Khashoggi's killing. The US president has refused to confirm the findings, while continuously reiterating the importance of having Saudi Arabia as an ally.

Russia has also refrained from criticising Saudi Arabia or the crown prince over the killing. Putin said in October he lacked information about the matter and said Russia would not tear up its relations with Saudi Arabia because of it.

However, Moscow has also fostered strong ties with Saudi Arabia's regional arch-foe Iran. Russia and Iran back President Bashar al-Assad in Syria's civil war, while Saudi Arabia along with Western countries has backed some rebel groups.

Kremlin spokesperson on Monday defended the heartily high-five between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Prince Mohammed Bin Salman saying that "good personal relations are the basis for effective bilateral cooperation".

Kremlin spokesperson on Monday defended the heartily high-five between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Saudi Prince Mohammed Bin Salman saying that "good personal relations are the basis for effective bilateral cooperation". He also said that Russia is interested in continuing relations with the OPEC and non-OPEC group of oil producers, and that Putin and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman discussed this issue at their meeting. While the world leaders at the G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina did not pay much heed to the Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman, Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday exchanged a high-five with him on the first day of the summit. Putin who took the seat next to the Crown prince at the plenary session at the G20 Summit laughed heartily with him while exchanging the high-five. × Putin's friendly behaviour towards the crown prince contrasted sharply with that of other leaders at the summit who sidelined the crown prince over the suspicious killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in October. Prince Mohammed was also sidelined during the official "family photo" of world leaders at Friday's gathering. He then quickly exited the stage without shaking hands or talking with the other leaders. There has been rising furore regarding a Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) report that hints at Salman's hand in Khashoggi's killing. The US president has refused to confirm the findings, while continuously reiterating the importance of having Saudi Arabia as an ally. Russia has also refrained from criticising Saudi Arabia or the crown prince over the killing. Putin said in October he lacked information about the matter and said Russia would not tear up its relations with Saudi Arabia because of it. However, Moscow has also fostered strong ties with Saudi Arabia's regional arch-foe Iran. Russia and Iran back President Bashar al-Assad in Syria's civil war, while Saudi Arabia along with Western countries has backed some rebel groups.

Kremlin defends Putin 'high-five' with crown prince at G-20 summit

By Tony Walker

The United States and China have arrived at a temporary truce in a trade conflict that was threatening to further destabilise world equity markets, entrench a global slowdown and cause more damage to a rules-based international order.

Agreement by US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, to allow further negotiations before threatened tariff increases on Chinese imports coming into effect, is a welcome development.

However, this is a temporary respite, a short-term fix, not a long-term solution to myriad trade and other tensions that have put the US and China at odds with each other.

For their own purposes and in their own interests, Trump and Xi have come away from the Argentine capital with a deal that papers over differences that extend from China’s activities in the South China Sea to its mercantilist trade policies.

As far as we know, China’s ruthless assertion of its sovereignty over disputed waters in the South China Sea was not a material subject for discussion in Buenos Aires except, possibly, in passing.

China’s rise and America’s relative decline ensure these global economic superpowers will continue to bump up against each other.

So, what was achieved and what are the prospects for an accord reached on the sidelines of the G20?

In their efforts to lower trade tensions and prevent a further erosion of global confidence, Trump and Xi agreed to a 90-day extension on the imposition of additional US tariffs on some $200 billion of Chinese imports.

Trump had threatened to increase tariffs from 10 per cent to 25 per cent on an initial batch of Chinese imports from January 1. He had also flagged his intention to impose levies on another $267 billion worth of imports if progress was not made in resolving broad-based trade differences.

A joint statement laid out a timeline for continuing negotiations. It reads:

"Both parties agree that they will endeavour to have this transaction completed within the next 90 days. If, at the end of this period of time, the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the 10 per cent tariffs will be raised to 25 percent."

In return for these temporary concessions, China agreed to:

"… purchase a not yet agreed upon, but very substantial, amount of agricultural, energy, industrial, and other product from the United States to reduce the trade imbalance between the two countries. China has agreed to start purchasing agricultural product immediately."

China also agreed to crack down on sales of Fentanyl by making it a controlled substance. The US is battling an opioid crisis in which Fentanyl is a lethal component.

In retaliation for US trade actions, China had imposed duties on US$110 billion of imports. A principal component of this is soybeans, effectively killing one of America’s more lucrative export markets.

Trump has been under huge pressure from his Mid-Western rural heartland over a collapse in the Chinese market for American agricultural products.

The two sides also agreed to address structural problems in the trading relationship. These extend to five areas – forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusions and cyber theft.

These are highly complex issues and unlikely to be resolved in the short term, if at all.

In the wash-up of the Xi-Trump discussions, it appears China has got more out of the deal than the US – at least for now. It has secured a stay of execution for the implementation of tariff increases and forestalled, for the time being, tariffs on an additional bloc of Chinese exports.

In return, it has agreed to buy unspecified quantities of US products and to talk about differences.

Trump’s willingness to compromise after months of bombast reflects pressures from a shellshocked grain-producing constituency and alarm on Wall Street at prospects of a full-blown trade war.

From Beijing’s perspective, China has demonstrated that its growing economic heft has enabled it to avoid the appearance of yielding to US pressure.

If not a “win-win” for China – as Chinese officials are fond of saying – it is certainly not a “lose-lose”.

In a statement at odds with months of fire-breathing rhetoric over China’s allegedly perfidious trade practices, Trump hailed his understanding with Xi. He said: "This was an amazing and productive meeting with unlimited possibilities for both the US and China."

For their part, Chinese officials were more circumspect.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the talks were conducted in a “friendly and candid atmosphere”. The presidents: "Agreed that the two sides can and must get bilateral relations right… China is willing to increase imports in accordance with the needs of its domestic market and the people’s needs."

Impetus for a face-saving deal in Buenos Aires has been prompted by growing concerns about the global economy. The signs of a slowdown are clear. Trade volumes had begun to moderate in the third quarter, heightening worries of a global retrenchment.

On the sidelines of the G20, the International Monetary Fund’s managing director, Christine Lagarde, noted:

"Pressures on emerging markets have been rising and trade tensions have begun to have a negative impact, increasing downside risks."

In its October Outlook statement, the IMF warned about threats to global growth due to trade disturbances.

In their final communique, G20 leaders danced around contentious issues on trade to accommodate American objections to having the word “protectionism” inserted in the document.

In the end, participants settled on the need for reform of the World Trade Organisation to describe a world trading system that is falling short of its objectives. Washington has been agitating for a review of the WTO to strengthen its dispute resolution and appeal procedures.

The US has also objected to a continuing description of China as a developing country, with concessions that enable it to take advantage of less developed country status in its access to global markets.

On climate change, Washington separated itself from the other G20 members. All, except the US, reaffirmed their commitment to the Paris Agreement. The US announced in 2017 it was pulling out of Paris.

Foreign policy specialists will be sceptical about a de-escalation of trade hostilities given the range of issues bedevilling the US-China relationship.

Reflecting a hardening of US attitudes towards China, and in contrast to the optimism that had prevailed for much of the past two decades, Ely Ratner in Foreign Affairs notes:

"Even if tariffs are put on hold, the United States will continue to restructure the US-China economic relationship through investment restrictions, export controls, and sustained law enforcement actions against Chinese industrial and cyber-espionage."

"At the same time, there are no serious prospects for Washington and Beijing to resolve other important areas of dispute, including the South China Sea, human rights and the larger contest over the norms, rules and institutions that govern relations in Asia."

A stiffening view in the US towards China is shared more or less across the board. In those circumstances, a temporary ceasefire in Buenos Aires is unlikely to be sustained.

 
(Tony Walker is Adjunct Professor, School of Communications, La Trobe University)

(This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the <a href="https://theconversation.com/g20-summit-bring-a-truce-in-us-china-trade-relations-but-its-likely-to-be-temporary-108017">original article</a>)

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

By Tony Walker The United States and China have arrived at a temporary truce in a trade conflict that was threatening to further destabilise world equity markets, entrench a global slowdown and cause more damage to a rules-based international order.

By Tony Walker The United States and China have arrived at a temporary truce in a trade conflict that was threatening to further destabilise world equity markets, entrench a global slowdown and cause more damage to a rules-based international order. Agreement by US President Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, to allow further negotiations before threatened tariff increases on Chinese imports coming into effect, is a welcome development. However, this is a temporary respite, a short-term fix, not a long-term solution to myriad trade and other tensions that have put the US and China at odds with each other. For their own purposes and in their own interests, Trump and Xi have come away from the Argentine capital with a deal that papers over differences that extend from China’s activities in the South China Sea to its mercantilist trade policies. As far as we know, China’s ruthless assertion of its sovereignty over disputed waters in the South China Sea was not a material subject for discussion in Buenos Aires except, possibly, in passing. China’s rise and America’s relative decline ensure these global economic superpowers will continue to bump up against each other. So, what was achieved and what are the prospects for an accord reached on the sidelines of the G20? In their efforts to lower trade tensions and prevent a further erosion of global confidence, Trump and Xi agreed to a 90-day extension on the imposition of additional US tariffs on some $200 billion of Chinese imports. Trump had threatened to increase tariffs from 10 per cent to 25 per cent on an initial batch of Chinese imports from January 1. He had also flagged his intention to impose levies on another $267 billion worth of imports if progress was not made in resolving broad-based trade differences. A joint statement laid out a timeline for continuing negotiations. It reads: "Both parties agree that they will endeavour to have this transaction completed within the next 90 days. If, at the end of this period of time, the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the 10 per cent tariffs will be raised to 25 percent." In return for these temporary concessions, China agreed to: "… purchase a not yet agreed upon, but very substantial, amount of agricultural, energy, industrial, and other product from the United States to reduce the trade imbalance between the two countries. China has agreed to start purchasing agricultural product immediately." China also agreed to crack down on sales of Fentanyl by making it a controlled substance. The US is battling an opioid crisis in which Fentanyl is a lethal component. In retaliation for US trade actions, China had imposed duties on US$110 billion of imports. A principal component of this is soybeans, effectively killing one of America’s more lucrative export markets. Trump has been under huge pressure from his Mid-Western rural heartland over a collapse in the Chinese market for American agricultural products. The two sides also agreed to address structural problems in the trading relationship. These extend to five areas – forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusions and cyber theft. These are highly complex issues and unlikely to be resolved in the short term, if at all. In the wash-up of the Xi-Trump discussions, it appears China has got more out of the deal than the US – at least for now. It has secured a stay of execution for the implementation of tariff increases and forestalled, for the time being, tariffs on an additional bloc of Chinese exports. In return, it has agreed to buy unspecified quantities of US products and to talk about differences. Trump’s willingness to compromise after months of bombast reflects pressures from a shellshocked grain-producing constituency and alarm on Wall Street at prospects of a full-blown trade war. From Beijing’s perspective, China has demonstrated that its growing economic heft has enabled it to avoid the appearance of yielding to US pressure. If not a “win-win” for China – as Chinese officials are fond of saying – it is certainly not a “lose-lose”. In a statement at odds with months of fire-breathing rhetoric over China’s allegedly perfidious trade practices, Trump hailed his understanding with Xi. He said: "This was an amazing and productive meeting with unlimited possibilities for both the US and China." For their part, Chinese officials were more circumspect. Foreign Minister Wang Yi said the talks were conducted in a “friendly and candid atmosphere”. The presidents: "Agreed that the two sides can and must get bilateral relations right… China is willing to increase imports in accordance with the needs of its domestic market and the people’s needs." Impetus for a face-saving deal in Buenos Aires has been prompted by growing concerns about the global economy. The signs of a slowdown are clear. Trade volumes had begun to moderate in the third quarter, heightening worries of a global retrenchment. On the sidelines of the G20, the International Monetary Fund’s managing director, Christine Lagarde, noted: "Pressures on emerging markets have been rising and trade tensions have begun to have a negative impact, increasing downside risks." In its October Outlook statement, the IMF warned about threats to global growth due to trade disturbances. In their final communique, G20 leaders danced around contentious issues on trade to accommodate American objections to having the word “protectionism” inserted in the document. In the end, participants settled on the need for reform of the World Trade Organisation to describe a world trading system that is falling short of its objectives. Washington has been agitating for a review of the WTO to strengthen its dispute resolution and appeal procedures. The US has also objected to a continuing description of China as a developing country, with concessions that enable it to take advantage of less developed country status in its access to global markets. On climate change, Washington separated itself from the other G20 members. All, except the US, reaffirmed their commitment to the Paris Agreement. The US announced in 2017 it was pulling out of Paris. Foreign policy specialists will be sceptical about a de-escalation of trade hostilities given the range of issues bedevilling the US-China relationship. Reflecting a hardening of US attitudes towards China, and in contrast to the optimism that had prevailed for much of the past two decades, Ely Ratner in Foreign Affairs notes: "Even if tariffs are put on hold, the United States will continue to restructure the US-China economic relationship through investment restrictions, export controls, and sustained law enforcement actions against Chinese industrial and cyber-espionage." "At the same time, there are no serious prospects for Washington and Beijing to resolve other important areas of dispute, including the South China Sea, human rights and the larger contest over the norms, rules and institutions that govern relations in Asia." A stiffening view in the US towards China is shared more or less across the board. In those circumstances, a temporary ceasefire in Buenos Aires is unlikely to be sustained. (Tony Walker is Adjunct Professor, School of Communications, La Trobe University) (This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article) (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL)

G20 summit brings a truce in US-China trade relations

The G20 (or Group of Twenty) is an international forum for the governments and central bank governors from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, the European Union, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The G20 is a self-appointed group whose composition is determined by the major countries and powers.

G20 consists of 19 individual countries plus the European Union (EU).

Collectively, the G20 economies account for around 90% of the gross world product (GWP), 80% of world trade (or, if excluding EU intra-trade, 75%), two-thirds of the world population,&nbsp;and approximately half of the world land area. It seeks to address issues that go beyond the responsibilities of any one organization, but still, the G20's membership policies have been criticized by numerous intellectuals. G20 is an initiative aiming at international coordination of economic policy. &nbsp;Summit themes varies from year to year.&nbsp;

HISTORY&nbsp;

Canadian finance minister Paul Martin was chosen as the first chairman and German finance minister Hans Eichel hosted the inaugural meeting in 1999 in Berlin. The group was founded primarily at the initiative of Eichel, the concurrent chair of the G7, as per 2004 report by Colin I. Bradford and Johannes F. Linn of the Brookings Institution.

However, Bradford later described &nbsp;Paul Martin as "the crucial architect of the formation of the G-20 at finance minister level," and as the one who later "proposed that the G-20 countries move to leaders level summits."

Canadian academic and journalistic sources have also identified the G20 a project initiated by Martin and then-US Treasury Secretary Larry Summers. But Germany and the United States played a key role in bringing their vision into reality. 
The G20's primary focus has been governance of the global economy.

MEMBERS&nbsp;

As of 2017, there are 20 members of the group. These include leaders of 19 countries, and of European Union and, at the ministerial-level meetings, the finance ministers and central bank governors of 19 countries and of the European Union. 
In addition each year, the G20's guests include Spain; the Chair of ASEAN; two African countries and a country (sometimes more than one) invited by the presidency, usually from its own region, and office holders of United Nation, World Bank &nbsp;Group and World Trade Organisation.&nbsp;

G20 AGENDA

Initially, G20 was set up for global economic coordination but over the years it has widened up its agenda. After the adoption of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement in 2015, more "issues of global significance" were added to the G20 agenda: migration, digitisation, employment, healthcare, the economic empowerment of women and development aid.

CRITICISM&nbsp;

&nbsp;Although G20 group has a high degree of legitimacy and influence over the management of the global economy and financial system due to broad membership and economic weight. G20 group's legitimacy has been challenged.

In a 2010 interview with Der Spiegel, the Norwegian foreign minister Jonas Gahr Støre called the G20 "one of the greatest setbacks since World War II." 
The G20's transparency and accountability have been questioned by critics.&nbsp;

The cost and extent of summit-related security is often a contentious issue in the hosting country, and G20 summits have attracted protesters from a variety of backgrounds, including information activists, opponents of fractional-reserve banking and anti-capitalists. In 2010, the Toronto G20 summit sparked mass protests and rioting, leading to the largest mass arrest in Canada's history. Critics also point out at the disproportionate representation of African countries&nbsp;

ACHIEVEMENTS&nbsp;

G20 provides a platform to discuss all issues that affect the world. Its major achievement includes quick deployment of emergency funding during the 2008 global financial crisis.&nbsp;

2018 G20 BUENOS AIRES SUMMIT

The thirteenth meeting of Group Of Twenty was held from 30 November till 1 December 2018 in the city of Buenos Aires, Argentina. &nbsp;It was the first G20 summit to be hosted in South America.

G20 Argentina had put forth three agenda priorities for the G20 dialogue in 2018: the future of work, infrastructure for development and a sustainable food future. 
A number of attending countries also focused on the regulation of crypto-currencies at this meeting. International trade was also one of the priorities of the thirteenth G20 Summit.&nbsp;

The 13 G20 Summit ended with a number of big outcomes such as<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/g20s-big-outcomes-india-to-host-g20-in-2022-trump-xis-trade-truce-181018"> India being as the host for G20 in 2022 </a>and Trump-Xi truce in the ongoing trade war.&nbsp; 
On Global outcomes, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/at-g20-dinner-trump-calls-relationship-with-xi-very-special-180799">US president and Chinese President </a>met for almost two-and-a-half hours on a working dinner.&nbsp;

Trump &amp; Xi have also agreed to "immediately" begin negotiations on "structural changes" with respect to forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusions and cyber theft, services and agriculture. Both agreed that this will be completed within the next 90 days.&nbsp;

G20 nations also agreed on reforming WTO

On the sidelines of G20,<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-meets-presdent-xi-takes-part-in-brics-meet-as-g20-summit-begins-180549"> PM Modi also met a number of world leaders </a>including Chinese President Xi<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/pm-modi-meets-presdent-xi-takes-part-in-brics-meet-as-g20-summit-begins-180549"> </a>for the fourth time since he assumed office and invited South African President Cyril Ramaphosa for the Republic day celebrations.

The G20 (or Group of Twenty) is an international forum for the governments and central bank governors from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, the European Union, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

The G20 (or Group of Twenty) is an international forum for the governments and central bank governors from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, the European Union, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The G20 is a self-appointed group whose composition is determined by the major countries and powers. G20 consists of 19 individual countries plus the European Union (EU). Collectively, the G20 economies account for around 90% of the gross world product (GWP), 80% of world trade (or, if excluding EU intra-trade, 75%), two-thirds of the world population, and approximately half of the world land area. It seeks to address issues that go beyond the responsibilities of any one organization, but still, the G20's membership policies have been criticized by numerous intellectuals. G20 is an initiative aiming at international coordination of economic policy. Summit themes varies from year to year. HISTORY Canadian finance minister Paul Martin was chosen as the first chairman and German finance minister Hans Eichel hosted the inaugural meeting in 1999 in Berlin. The group was founded primarily at the initiative of Eichel, the concurrent chair of the G7, as per 2004 report by Colin I. Bradford and Johannes F. Linn of the Brookings Institution. However, Bradford later described Paul Martin as "the crucial architect of the formation of the G-20 at finance minister level," and as the one who later "proposed that the G-20 countries move to leaders level summits." Canadian academic and journalistic sources have also identified the G20 a project initiated by Martin and then-US Treasury Secretary Larry Summers. But Germany and the United States played a key role in bringing their vision into reality. The G20's primary focus has been governance of the global economy. MEMBERS As of 2017, there are 20 members of the group. These include leaders of 19 countries, and of European Union and, at the ministerial-level meetings, the finance ministers and central bank governors of 19 countries and of the European Union. In addition each year, the G20's guests include Spain; the Chair of ASEAN; two African countries and a country (sometimes more than one) invited by the presidency, usually from its own region, and office holders of United Nation, World Bank Group and World Trade Organisation. G20 AGENDA Initially, G20 was set up for global economic coordination but over the years it has widened up its agenda. After the adoption of the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the Paris Climate Agreement in 2015, more "issues of global significance" were added to the G20 agenda: migration, digitisation, employment, healthcare, the economic empowerment of women and development aid. CRITICISM Although G20 group has a high degree of legitimacy and influence over the management of the global economy and financial system due to broad membership and economic weight. G20 group's legitimacy has been challenged. In a 2010 interview with Der Spiegel, the Norwegian foreign minister Jonas Gahr Støre called the G20 "one of the greatest setbacks since World War II." The G20's transparency and accountability have been questioned by critics. The cost and extent of summit-related security is often a contentious issue in the hosting country, and G20 summits have attracted protesters from a variety of backgrounds, including information activists, opponents of fractional-reserve banking and anti-capitalists. In 2010, the Toronto G20 summit sparked mass protests and rioting, leading to the largest mass arrest in Canada's history. Critics also point out at the disproportionate representation of African countries ACHIEVEMENTS G20 provides a platform to discuss all issues that affect the world. Its major achievement includes quick deployment of emergency funding during the 2008 global financial crisis. 2018 G20 BUENOS AIRES SUMMIT The thirteenth meeting of Group Of Twenty was held from 30 November till 1 December 2018 in the city of Buenos Aires, Argentina. It was the first G20 summit to be hosted in South America. G20 Argentina had put forth three agenda priorities for the G20 dialogue in 2018: the future of work, infrastructure for development and a sustainable food future. A number of attending countries also focused on the regulation of crypto-currencies at this meeting. International trade was also one of the priorities of the thirteenth G20 Summit. The 13 G20 Summit ended with a number of big outcomes such as India being as the host for G20 in 2022 and Trump-Xi truce in the ongoing trade war. On Global outcomes, US president and Chinese President met for almost two-and-a-half hours on a working dinner. Trump & Xi have also agreed to "immediately" begin negotiations on "structural changes" with respect to forced technology transfer, intellectual property protection, non-tariff barriers, cyber intrusions and cyber theft, services and agriculture. Both agreed that this will be completed within the next 90 days. G20 nations also agreed on reforming WTO On the sidelines of G20, PM Modi also met a number of world leaders including Chinese President Xi for the fourth time since he assumed office and invited South African President Cyril Ramaphosa for the Republic day celebrations.

What does the G20 do ?

<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-it-is-suspending-new-china-tariffs-for-90-days-180809">US</a><a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-it-is-suspending-new-china-tariffs-for-90-days-180809"> says it is suspending new China tariffs for 90 days</a>

The United States said Saturday that it agreed in a long-awaited summit with China to suspend new tariffs for 90 days as the two powers seek to end a trade war.

The White House said a threatened increase of tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from 10 to 25 percent, which was set to take effect on January 1, would be put off for 90 days.&nbsp;

"If at the end of this period of time, the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the 10 percent tariffs will be raised to 25 percent," a White House statement said after dinner talks between President Donald Trump and his counterpart Xi Jinping on the sidelines of a G20 summit in Buenos Aires.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/war-will-continue-so-long-as-ukraine-government-stays-putin-180802">War will continue so long as Ukraine government stays: Putin</a>

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday he saw no end to the conflict in eastern Ukraine "as long as the current authorities remain in power."

"The current Ukrainian authorities have no interest in resolving the conflict, especially by peaceful means," Putin told reporters at the end of the G20 summit in Argentina.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/ukraine-russia-conflict-putin-explains-his-side-of-the-story-to-trump-180807">Putin briefs Trump on Ukraine-Russia conflict</a>

Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday he briefed his US counterpart Donald Trump on the Ukraine crisis as he came under pressure over Moscow's robust foreign policy at the G20 summit in Argentina.

Putin said he explained Moscow's position to Trump when the leaders met briefly at a summit dinner Friday.

"We spoke standing up. I replied to his questions about the incident in the Black Sea," Putin told reporters at the end of the summit.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/at-g20-pm-talks-about-trade-wars-and-terror-180797">At G20, Modi says trade war can do collateral damage to emerging economies</a>

Day 2 of the G20 summit came to an end Saturday with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi focusing on the issue of terror and highlighting how trade wars can be detrimental to global economies.

Briefing the media, India's sherpa at the G20, Shaktikanta Das, said, "The PM highlighted escalating trade tension and the collateral damage it can do to emerging economies."

The big focus at this year's G20 has been the trade war between the world's two biggest economies, the US and China.

 
<a href="http://www.wionews.com/entertainment/spider-man-is-back-and-this-time-hes-black-and-latino-180806">Spider-Man is back. And this time he's black and Latino</a>

For what seems like the umpteenth time, Spider-Man is back on the big screen.&nbsp;

But this year, when Hollywood is under the microscope on the hot-button issue of diversity, the superhero is half-black and half-Latino.

Step aside, Peter Parker. There's a new Spidey in town. Hello, Miles Morales.

US says it is suspending new China tariffs for 90 days The United States said Saturday that it agreed in a long-awaited summit with China to suspend new tariffs for 90 days as the two powers seek to end a trade war.

US says it is suspending new China tariffs for 90 days The United States said Saturday that it agreed in a long-awaited summit with China to suspend new tariffs for 90 days as the two powers seek to end a trade war. The White House said a threatened increase of tariffs on $200 billion worth of Chinese goods from 10 to 25 percent, which was set to take effect on January 1, would be put off for 90 days. "If at the end of this period of time, the parties are unable to reach an agreement, the 10 percent tariffs will be raised to 25 percent," a White House statement said after dinner talks between President Donald Trump and his counterpart Xi Jinping on the sidelines of a G20 summit in Buenos Aires. War will continue so long as Ukraine government stays: Putin Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday he saw no end to the conflict in eastern Ukraine "as long as the current authorities remain in power." "The current Ukrainian authorities have no interest in resolving the conflict, especially by peaceful means," Putin told reporters at the end of the G20 summit in Argentina. Putin briefs Trump on Ukraine-Russia conflict Russian President Vladimir Putin said Saturday he briefed his US counterpart Donald Trump on the Ukraine crisis as he came under pressure over Moscow's robust foreign policy at the G20 summit in Argentina. Putin said he explained Moscow's position to Trump when the leaders met briefly at a summit dinner Friday. "We spoke standing up. I replied to his questions about the incident in the Black Sea," Putin told reporters at the end of the summit. At G20, Modi says trade war can do collateral damage to emerging economies Day 2 of the G20 summit came to an end Saturday with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi focusing on the issue of terror and highlighting how trade wars can be detrimental to global economies. Briefing the media, India's sherpa at the G20, Shaktikanta Das, said, "The PM highlighted escalating trade tension and the collateral damage it can do to emerging economies." The big focus at this year's G20 has been the trade war between the world's two biggest economies, the US and China. Spider-Man is back. And this time he's black and Latino For what seems like the umpteenth time, Spider-Man is back on the big screen. But this year, when Hollywood is under the microscope on the hot-button issue of diversity, the superhero is half-black and half-Latino. Step aside, Peter Parker. There's a new Spidey in town. Hello, Miles Morales.

US President Donald Trump met with his Chinese counterpart President Xi Jinping at a dinner meeting on Saturday on the sidelines of the 13th G20 Summit.

According to reports, the two leaders interacted and discussed the growing trade war between the two biggest economies in the world.&nbsp;

During the start of the dinner, which marked the end of the two-day-long, high-voltage summit, the US President described his relationship with the Chinese President as "very special."

"The relationship is very special — the relationship that I have with President Xi — and I think that is going to be a very primary reason why <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/china-us-agree-no-new-tariffs-after-january-1-chinese-media-180801">we will probably end up getting something that will be good</a> for China and the United States," Trump said.&nbsp;

Xi, on the other hand, called for mutual cooperation for better ties and easing of tensions. &nbsp;"Only with cooperation between us can we serve the interest of both peace and prosperity," Xi noted.&nbsp;

White House top economic advisor Larry Kudlow shared that the meeting went "very well" and that an official statement on Trump-Xi interaction will be issued shortly by White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders, news agency AFP reported.&nbsp;

(With inputs from AFP)&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump met with his Chinese counterpart President Xi Jinping at a dinner meeting on Saturday on the sidelines of the 13th G20 Summit. According to reports, the two leaders interacted and discussed the growing trade war between the two biggest economies in the world.

US President Donald Trump met with his Chinese counterpart President Xi Jinping at a dinner meeting on Saturday on the sidelines of the 13th G20 Summit. According to reports, the two leaders interacted and discussed the growing trade war between the two biggest economies in the world. During the start of the dinner, which marked the end of the two-day-long, high-voltage summit, the US President described his relationship with the Chinese President as "very special." "The relationship is very special — the relationship that I have with President Xi — and I think that is going to be a very primary reason why we will probably end up getting something that will be good for China and the United States," Trump said. Xi, on the other hand, called for mutual cooperation for better ties and easing of tensions. "Only with cooperation between us can we serve the interest of both peace and prosperity," Xi noted. White House top economic advisor Larry Kudlow shared that the meeting went "very well" and that an official statement on Trump-Xi interaction will be issued shortly by White House spokeswoman Sarah Sanders, news agency AFP reported. (With inputs from AFP)

At G20 dinner with China's Xi, Trump says their relationship is 'very special'

Day 2 of the G20 summit came to an end Saturday with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi focusing on the issue of terror and highlighting how trade wars can be detrimental to global economies.

Briefing the media, India's sherpa at the G20,&nbsp;<a href="http://www.wionews.com/india-news/strengthening-fatf-bring-to-book-fugitive-economic-offender-indias-top-focus-at-g20-180325">Shaktikanta Das</a>, said, "The PM highlighted escalating trade tension and the collateral damage it can do to emerging economies."

The big focus at this year's G20 has been the trade&nbsp;war&nbsp;between the world's two biggest economies, <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/at-g20-dinner-trump-calls-relationship-with-xi-very-special-180799">the US and China</a>.

The focus was also on reforms at the WTO and the PM called on the "need to have proactive and reformed multilateralism at the global level."

Even the BRICS statement, issued after the informal meet on the sidelines of G20, mentioned WTO and called on "all members to oppose such WTO inconsistent measures, stand by their commitments undertaken in the WTO and rollback such measures of a discriminatory and restrictive nature."

Terror remained a key focus by the PM. He called on the need to "implement the 11-point action plan against terrorism which was issued as a stand-alone statement in last year's G20 summit (in Hamburg)."&nbsp;

Sherpa replying to WION's question on terror said, "the PM raised the issue of terror and the way it undermines human life and also economies and society. The PM emphasised that the Hamburg declaration should be implemented by all countries. "

PM Modi also a gave a 9-point agenda on fugitive economic offenders which suggested that FATF or Financial Action Task Force should come out with a common definition on who is a "fugitive economic offenders."

Day 2 of the G20 summit came to an end Saturday with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi focusing on the issue of terror and highlighting how trade wars can be detrimental to global economies.

Day 2 of the G20 summit came to an end Saturday with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi focusing on the issue of terror and highlighting how trade wars can be detrimental to global economies. Briefing the media, India's sherpa at the G20, Shaktikanta Das, said, "The PM highlighted escalating trade tension and the collateral damage it can do to emerging economies." The big focus at this year's G20 has been the trade war between the world's two biggest economies, the US and China. The focus was also on reforms at the WTO and the PM called on the "need to have proactive and reformed multilateralism at the global level." Even the BRICS statement, issued after the informal meet on the sidelines of G20, mentioned WTO and called on "all members to oppose such WTO inconsistent measures, stand by their commitments undertaken in the WTO and rollback such measures of a discriminatory and restrictive nature." Terror remained a key focus by the PM. He called on the need to "implement the 11-point action plan against terrorism which was issued as a stand-alone statement in last year's G20 summit (in Hamburg)." Sherpa replying to WION's question on terror said, "the PM raised the issue of terror and the way it undermines human life and also economies and society. The PM emphasised that the Hamburg declaration should be implemented by all countries. " PM Modi also a gave a 9-point agenda on fugitive economic offenders which suggested that FATF or Financial Action Task Force should come out with a common definition on who is a "fugitive economic offenders."

At G20, Modi says trade war can do collateral damage to emerging economies

US President <a href="http://www.wionews.com/world/us-says-it-is-suspending-new-china-tariffs-for-90-days-180809">Donald Trump and China's Xi Jinping agreed Saturday to suspend any new tariffs</a> in the escalating trade war between the world's two largest economies, even if huge existing duties will remain in place.

Following more than two hours of dinner talks between the two leaders, the White House said an increase of tariffs from 10 to 25 per cent due to kick in on January 1 would now be put on hold, providing room for intense negotiations.&nbsp;

The agreement hashed out over steak in the Argentine capital Buenos Aires, lowers the temperature in a conflict that has spooked world markets.

The two leaders, who were in Buenos Aires for a summit of the G20 countries, called it "a highly successful meeting," the White House said.

"The principal agreement has effectively prevented further expansion of economic friction between the two countries and has opened up new space for win-win cooperation," said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi.

Partial truce

Under the agreement, Trump is shelving a plan to raise existing tariffs of 10 per cent to 25 per cent from the start of next year.

Xi avoids further immediate pressure on China's slowing economy, while Trump -- hit by the US Democrats' congressional win in last month's mid-term elections -- can ease damage to agricultural US states that export to China, particularly the key soybean crop.

"This was a rare opportunity for China because (the mid-terms) made Trump a lame president," said Beijing-based political consultant Hua Po.

"So at this time it was acceptable for China to maintain some bottom lines while making some major concessions."

But Brad Setser, a former Treasury official and now senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington, told Bloomberg much remains to be done.

"The hard part is finding the basis for a real deal that settles the broader issues rather than agreeing on a pause," Setser said.

The truce is only partial.

Some $50 billion worth of Chinese imports already face 25 per cent tariffs, while the 10 per cent tariffs -- which target a massive $200 billion in goods -- will also remain in effect.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, China has targeted $110 billion worth of US imports for tariffs.&nbsp;

If there is any further retaliation, Trump has warned, he will slap punitive duties on the remaining $267 billion in Chinese goods coming to the United States.

And Saturday's truce also contained an ultimatum.

The White House made clear that the 10 per cent tariffs would still leap up to 25 per cent if China doesn't meet US demands in 90 days.

These include China stopping a host of trade barriers, intellectual property theft and other actions that Washington says make fair trade impossible.&nbsp;

Tough negotiations lie ahead, but Trump was upbeat.

"This was an amazing and productive meeting with unlimited possibilities for both the United States and China," he said in a statement.

Steaks and high stakes

The meeting -- featuring a menu of sirloin steak, caramel rolled pancakes and Argentine wine -- went on longer than scheduled.&nbsp;

And while it may have been tacked on to the end of two days of G20 diplomacy, it was in many ways the main event of the weekend.

German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who was also attending the G20, spoke for many when she urged progress.

"We all realize that we are indirectly influenced by the fact that Sino-American economic relations are not running as smoothly as a world order needs," she said.

Personal chemistry factor

On the US side at the dinner, Trump was accompanied by advisers such as Larry Kudlow and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who are widely seen as wanting a deal.

But hawkish advisers like Peter Navarro and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer were also present.&nbsp;

Trump, as often in his diplomatic dealings, appears to consider his personal chemistry with Xi the most important factor in the success of the negotiations.

He has prided himself on building a good relationship with the Chinese leader, even though he acknowledges it may have trouble surviving the growing crisis.

At the dinner, Trump said his ties to Xi were "a very primary reason" for considering a deal possible.

US President Donald Trump and China's Xi Jinping agreed Saturday to suspend any new tariffs in the escalating trade war between the world's two largest economies, even if huge existing duties will remain in place.

US President Donald Trump and China's Xi Jinping agreed Saturday to suspend any new tariffs in the escalating trade war between the world's two largest economies, even if huge existing duties will remain in place. Following more than two hours of dinner talks between the two leaders, the White House said an increase of tariffs from 10 to 25 per cent due to kick in on January 1 would now be put on hold, providing room for intense negotiations. The agreement hashed out over steak in the Argentine capital Buenos Aires, lowers the temperature in a conflict that has spooked world markets. The two leaders, who were in Buenos Aires for a summit of the G20 countries, called it "a highly successful meeting," the White House said. "The principal agreement has effectively prevented further expansion of economic friction between the two countries and has opened up new space for win-win cooperation," said Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Partial truce Under the agreement, Trump is shelving a plan to raise existing tariffs of 10 per cent to 25 per cent from the start of next year. Xi avoids further immediate pressure on China's slowing economy, while Trump -- hit by the US Democrats' congressional win in last month's mid-term elections -- can ease damage to agricultural US states that export to China, particularly the key soybean crop. "This was a rare opportunity for China because (the mid-terms) made Trump a lame president," said Beijing-based political consultant Hua Po. "So at this time it was acceptable for China to maintain some bottom lines while making some major concessions." But Brad Setser, a former Treasury official and now senior fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations in Washington, told Bloomberg much remains to be done. "The hard part is finding the basis for a real deal that settles the broader issues rather than agreeing on a pause," Setser said. The truce is only partial. Some $50 billion worth of Chinese imports already face 25 per cent tariffs, while the 10 per cent tariffs -- which target a massive $200 billion in goods -- will also remain in effect. Meanwhile, China has targeted $110 billion worth of US imports for tariffs. If there is any further retaliation, Trump has warned, he will slap punitive duties on the remaining $267 billion in Chinese goods coming to the United States. And Saturday's truce also contained an ultimatum. The White House made clear that the 10 per cent tariffs would still leap up to 25 per cent if China doesn't meet US demands in 90 days. These include China stopping a host of trade barriers, intellectual property theft and other actions that Washington says make fair trade impossible. Tough negotiations lie ahead, but Trump was upbeat. "This was an amazing and productive meeting with unlimited possibilities for both the United States and China," he said in a statement. Steaks and high stakes The meeting -- featuring a menu of sirloin steak, caramel rolled pancakes and Argentine wine -- went on longer than scheduled. And while it may have been tacked on to the end of two days of G20 diplomacy, it was in many ways the main event of the weekend. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who was also attending the G20, spoke for many when she urged progress. "We all realize that we are indirectly influenced by the fact that Sino-American economic relations are not running as smoothly as a world order needs," she said. Personal chemistry factor On the US side at the dinner, Trump was accompanied by advisers such as Larry Kudlow and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who are widely seen as wanting a deal. But hawkish advisers like Peter Navarro and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer were also present. Trump, as often in his diplomatic dealings, appears to consider his personal chemistry with Xi the most important factor in the success of the negotiations. He has prided himself on building a good relationship with the Chinese leader, even though he acknowledges it may have trouble surviving the growing crisis. At the dinner, Trump said his ties to Xi were "a very primary reason" for considering a deal possible.

US, China agree to trade war ceasefire, talks to continue

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