Russian Minister Reshetnikov Calls for G20 Consensus Amid Global Divisions

MILWAUKEE /Wisconsin/, October 2. /TASS/. Many Group of Twenty (G20) countries believe it is necessary to consolidate around the most pressing issues and seek consensus, Russian Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov told reporters on Thursday following the G20 meeting in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

"Many expressed the view that it would be wrong to abandon the G20’s standard working format, under which all decisions are made by consensus among all countries, in favor of an approach where certain countries simply sign on to a particular position. The task is not to divide the world into camps - it is already doing that on its own. The G20’s task has always been to bring countries together, consolidate around the most pressing issues, and reach agreement," Reshetnikov noted.

He stressed that the G20 has strong potential to resolve issues constructively. "We need to focus on that rather than go our separate ways, form yet more blocs, and gather groups of countries to sign various statements. We need to concentrate on what unites us. Ultimately, global trade is what makes every nation richer," the minister emphasized.

The ministerial meeting in Milwaukee, which Reshetnikov attended, focused on international economic development and trade. It was held from September 30 to October 1. The United States holds the G20 presidency this year. The G20 events in the US will culminate in a summit to be held on December 14-15 near Miami, Florida.