The Group of 20 (G20) leaders on Sunday emphasized G20's commitment to facilitating data free flow for the development of digital economy, and ensuring an inclusive recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic, said a G20 statement.

As the pandemic rages, the group of the world's richest nations agreed to rise to challenges together and build a resilient, long-lasting and inclusive recovery that tackles inequalities during a virtual summit hosted by Saudi Arabia.

The statement noted that connectivity, digital technologies and policies have played a key role in strengthening global response to the pandemic and facilitating the continuation of economic activity.

It is acknowledged that universal, secure and affordable connectivity is a fundamental enabler for the digital economy as well as a catalyst for inclusive growth, innovation and sustainable development.

The role of data for development has been reaffirmed, and G20 members have acknowledged the importance of data free flow with trust and cross-border data flows, according to the statement.

The group said by continuing to address these challenges, in accordance with relevant applicable legal frameworks, it can further facilitate data free flow and strengthen consumer and business trust.

G20 members also emphasized an inclusive recovery that tackles inequalities. The social and economic impact of the pandemic makes it even more urgent to accelerate efforts to end poverty and tackle inequalities and work to ensure that no one is left behind, the statement said.

This crisis continues to have disproportionate economic and social impact on the most vulnerable segments of society, reinforcing the need to enhance access to opportunities for all, the statement added.

Tackling the devastating impact of the pandemic on labor markets remains the group's priority as millions of workers continue to face job and income loss.

The group will work to ensure that the pandemic does not widen gender inequalities and undermine the progress made in recent decades.

It will continue its efforts in collaboration with stakeholders, including the private sector, to facilitate the travel and tourism sector's recovery from the pandemic, the group said.

The group also emphasized the importance of shared actions to: mitigate the impact of the pandemic on those in vulnerable situations, which may include refugees, migrants and forcibly displaced people; respond to growing humanitarian needs; and address the root causes of displacement.

(Cover: Riyadh, capital of Saudi Arabia, where the 2020 G20 summit was scheduled to take place on November 21-22, but was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic. /VCG)

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Full text of Leaders' Declaration of G20 Riyadh Summit