Leaders from the world’s largest economies gathered in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on November 18, 2024, for the G20 Summit, which runs through November 19. The meeting, featuring representatives from 19 countries, the EU, and the African Union, comes at a critical time with the world facing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, economic uncertainty, and a looming transition to Donald Trump’s presidency in the United States.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan are among the key attendees. Mexican President Gloria Sheinbaum is attending her first international summit, focusing on reducing arms spending and boosting food security. Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden is making his final appearance, while Russian President Vladimir Putin opted out, claiming his presence would “wreck” the summit due to discussions surrounding his International Criminal Court arrest warrant.

The summit focuses on eradicating hunger and stabilizing global economies. Brazil aims to launch a Global Alliance Against Hunger, addressing food shortages with funding mechanisms and social programs. Hunger impacts 735 million people globally, according to the UN. The G20, representing 85% of global GDP and 75% of global trade, has historically been a platform for major agreements, including a $4 trillion stimulus package during the 2008 financial crisis.

China, pushing its Belt and Road Initiative, seeks to strengthen economic partnerships, though Brazil has declined to join. On the sidelines, Starmer plans to meet Xi to explore trade opportunities amidst strained UK-China relations. Meanwhile, Trump’s policies, including raising tariffs and reducing U.S. support for Ukraine, could disrupt global agreements.

The war in Ukraine remains central, with China and Trump calling for diplomatic solutions. Discussions also touch on economic projects like the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, launched at the 2023 summit in India, which challenges China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

As the summit concludes, experts question the G20’s ability to maintain cohesion amidst growing geopolitical tensions and competing priorities. The outcomes could significantly shape the global economic and political landscape.