Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken addressed fellow G20 foreign ministers at the UN Headquarters in New York City, emphasizing the United States' commitment to inclusive growth and global cooperation ahead of the Rio Summit in November.
Blinken highlighted a quote from President Lula during his meeting with President Biden last year: “Another world is possible with more fraternity, with more solidarity…with more fairness.” This sentiment reflects the spirit that the United States aims to bring to the G20's agenda under Brazil’s presidency.
The U.S. plans to promote broad-based growth that benefits all people, focusing on an economy that protects its workers, especially those most vulnerable. Blinken referenced the Partnership for Worker Rights launched by Presidents Biden and Lula last year, which promotes labor rights and collective bargaining.
The United States is also investing in sustainable infrastructure through its Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment. Additionally, it remains a major donor to global food security efforts, having provided over $17.5 billion in food aid since 2021.
Blinken expressed strong support for Brazil’s initiative to establish the G20’s Global Alliance Against Hunger and emphasized the need to tackle climate change. The U.S. has made significant investments in clean energy and collaborates with countries like Brazil to preserve critical ecosystems such as the Amazon rainforest.
To address these challenges effectively, Blinken called for reforms in global institutions to better represent today's world. He mentioned U.S. support for expanding UN Security Council seats for African countries and Small Island Developing States and reaffirmed support for permanent representation for Latin America, Germany, India, and Japan.
He acknowledged India's contributions during its G20 presidency towards reforming multilateral development banks to ensure equitable prosperity. Blinken also noted ongoing efforts to increase international financial institutions' capacity to help low- and middle-income countries facing climate shocks and public health challenges.
In closing remarks on current geopolitical issues, Blinken condemned Russia's actions against Ukraine and reiterated U.S. engagement in de-escalating tensions in Lebanon while working towards a ceasefire agreement.
Blinken concluded by affirming the United States' commitment to promoting an affirmative agenda at future meetings such as the upcoming Rio Summit.
