Moscow: As the G20 summit hosted by India approaches, Moscow has raised concerns that certain countries will prioritize the Ukraine crisis over economic and financial matters during the event.
Russian Ambassador to India Denis Alipov expressed reservations about the G20 agenda, emphasizing the forum's traditional focus on economic issues. Moscow believes that the current trajectory of discussions within the G20 could be detrimental to the primary objectives of the group.
The G20's Economic and Financial Mandate
The G20, a gathering of the world's largest economies, has historically concentrated on addressing international economic and financial challenges. Established in 1999, the forum was designed to facilitate cooperation among member countries in these domains.
Concerns Over Ukraine Crisis Dominating Agenda
Russian Ambassador Denis Alipov voiced concerns that "some countries" have exerted pressure to include the Ukraine crisis prominently on the G20 agenda, contrary to the forum's economic and financial focus. Moscow has consistently maintained that the G20 should prioritize economic matters over political ones.
Russia's Position on G20 Agenda
Russia contends that political issues like the Ukraine crisis should not be integral to the G20's discussions. Ambassador Alipov argued that if consensus cannot be reached on including geopolitical topics in the agenda, they should be excluded altogether. Moscow remains open to addressing the Ukraine conflict in appropriate forums designated for political discussions.
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Support for India's G20 Priorities
Russia reaffirmed its support for India's G20 presidency, endorsing key priorities such as sustainable development and climate finance, inclusive growth, and digital transformation. Ambassador Alipov expressed hope that the summit's outcomes would align with India's proposed agenda.
India's Growing Role in Global Affairs
Ambassador Alipov acknowledged India's increasing influence in international affairs and anticipated its expanded role in global decision-making. He reiterated Russia's support for India's bid for permanent membership in the UN Security Council.
Russia's Balanced Approach to India-China Relations
Moscow emphasized its balanced approach to bilateral relations with both India and China. The diplomat stressed that Russia does not seek to develop ties with one country at the expense of another.
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Bilateral Trade Growth Between Russia and India
The ambassador highlighted the robust growth in bilateral trade between Russia and India over the past year. While payment mechanisms involving national currencies have faced some issues due to Indian banks' reluctance, trade dynamics overall have been positive. Opportunities for Indian businesses to export to Russia have emerged, particularly in sectors where Western companies have withdrawn.
As the G20 summit draws near, the tension between prioritizing the Ukraine crisis and adhering to the G20's traditional economic agenda is poised to shape the discussions. Moscow's reservations reflect broader concerns about the forum's evolving role amid geopolitical challenges. The G20 summit hosted by India will serve as a pivotal test of the group's ability to navigate these complex dynamics.
