Amid political and geographical uncertainties, the 10th G20 summit will kick off on Friday in Argentina's capital Buenos Aires. Leaders of the world's largest economies will concentrate on pressing global issues and are expected to make a joint commitment as usual. But Cheng Dawei, for the School of Economics from the Renmin University, China, said the process would be challenging.
“I think the process going towards to the final document is still difficult, because so many topics are on the agenda,” she said, adding that the commitment can be achieved “if we can narrow down the agenda… focus more on the issues, don't be influenced by too much political factors and try to make [the] economy go to [a] right track.”
“The European Union calls for WTO reform. China calls for free trade. And the United States wants to discuss trade protectionism or so-called fair trade. If we can put trade issue or international trading system reform issue on the priority, maybe we can reach an agreement,” she added.
Cheng Dawei, a professor with the School of Economics of the Renmin University, China, and also a research fellow with the National Academy of Development & Strategy. /CGTN Photo
It's the first time the G20 summit has been held in a developing nation in Latin America. And the presidency will focus on three key issues: the future of work, infrastructure for development, and a sustainable food future. Cheng said all three topics are Argentina's main concerns.
“The hosting country has right to put some issues on the priority. Argentina is a big agriculture country. To make agricultural products more valuable and be sold at a higher price is the issue [that Argentina is concerned about]. And infrastructure includes both physical infrastructure and digital infrastructure. The global capital going to this sector is very low, and much lower below its need. And future of work is talking about how high-tech impact global job market,” she claimed.
Cheng said China has taken actions on promoting Argentina's development. “China has already taken the first step. We have already imported a lot of agricultural products from Argentina… China can help food processing industry development in Argentina… And China has pushed more money into the infrastructure sector [in Argentina] already, ” Cheng explained.
“And actions are needed from other members. I hope there will be a good discussion among members,” she said.