G20 vows fair distribution of COVID-19 vaccine
King Salman: We are committed to leading the world toward recovery
G20 leaders on Sunday said they will “spare no effort” to ensure the fair distribution of coronavirus vaccines worldwide, and to support poor countries whose economies have been ravaged by the crisis.
Sunday was the second and final day of the virtual G20 Summit hosted by Saudi Arabia, the only Arab member of the group comprising the world’s most powerful economies.
King Salman said in his closing remarks that the G20 had “adopted important policies that will achieve recovery all the way to an economy that is resilient, sustainable, inclusive and balanced.”
He reiterated that the aim of the G20 and its Saudi presidency this year was “overcoming the immediate global challenges.”
He added: “Looking forward … we will work on laying the foundations to achieve the main theme of our (G20) presidency: Realizing opportunities of the 21st century for all.”
In his remarks, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman said the G20 “has demonstrated the vitality of its role over the years to deal with economic, financial, social and environmental issues.”
He added: “In light of the outbreak of COVID-19 and its health, economic and social repercussions, our cooperation has been more important than ever.”
The communique, which had been approved by all member governments, “committed to advancing global pandemic preparedness, prevention, detection and response.” It focused on the importance of inclusive growth — especially for women and youth — a resilient financial architecture, preventing environmental degradation, promoting sustainability, and ensuring a stable and uninterrupted supply of energy. In the final press conference of the Saudi presidency, Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan said the G20 is a testament to multilateral processes.
He stressed that the economic and health response to the pandemic had to be inclusive, adding that “if we leave any country behind we will all be hurt,” and that “if one country suffers we all suffer.”