Buenos Aires tightens security during G20 Summit

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Europe

00:34

Those staying in hotels along 9 de Julio Avenue, the main road in Buenos Aires, have spent this week getting awoken by the noise of blaring sirens, motorbikes and hovering helicopters as the city has beefed up security to welcome the G20 Summit.

About 22,000 police and security forces have been deployed to ensure the safety of the summit, according to Argentine Security Minister Patricia Bullrich.

China has extended its support to Argentina by offering police equipment to local security forces.

Security equipment from China is deployed in Buenos Aires during the G20 Summit. /CGTN Photo

The Argentine government declared Friday a national holiday, advising those who are not involved in the G20 to get out of town for weekend.

Many intersections and roads have been blocked since Thursday night to clear the way for the motorcades of high-profile figures. Banks, markets and government offices were also closed on Friday.

The once bustling streets are now like a large parking lot full of riot police vehicles and the empty streets are perfect for tourists who want to get selfies on the very middle of the avenue with the landmark obelisk – something that is usually borderline impossible.

Tourists seize the chance to take pictures with landmark obelisk. /CGTN Photo

This is the first time that Argentina has held the G20 Summit, of which the key sessions are taking on Friday and Saturday. Global leaders are also expected to hold sideline meetings, taking the spotlight off the actual summit itself, making the city's security situation even more challenging.

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