New Delhi: US President Joe Biden, who has confirmed his attendance, expressed disappointment over the looming possibility that his Chinese counterpart, Xi Jinping, may skip the prestigious G20 Summit scheduled to be held in New Delhi. With tensions simmering on India’s borders with China, this development casts a shadow over the event.
Xi’s potential absence creates geopolitical ripples
In a surprising twist, Xi Jinping is likely to give the G20 summit in Delhi a miss, according to insiders. Instead, Premier Li Qiang is expected to represent China at the summit, raising eyebrows amid the ongoing border disputes between Beijing and New Delhi. As of now, China has refrained from issuing an official statement regarding Xi’s participation.
Is Putin setting the precedent?
Xi Jinping would become the second prominent world leader to opt out of the summit. Earlier this week, Russian President Vladimir Putin conveyed his “inability” to attend the summit in person in a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Putin’s decision follows his absence from the G20 summit in Bali last November.
Biden voices his disappointment
US President Joe Biden shared his disappointment regarding these reports but remained optimistic about his visit to India. Biden is scheduled to arrive in New Delhi on September 7, two days before the G20 summit kicks off.
Peeking at the grand G20 venue
The G20 summit is set to take place at the newly-constructed Bharat Mandapam in Pragati Maidan, New Delhi, promising to be one of the most prominent gatherings of global leaders on Indian soil. Extensive preparations are underway in the capital to welcome delegates from around the world, including over two dozen world leaders.
A closer look at G20
The G20, consisting of 19 major developed and developing economies along with the European Union, is a vital global forum. Its members include Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the UK, the US, and the European Union.
As the world eagerly awaits the G20 summit in New Delhi, all eyes are on China’s final decision, which could significantly impact the dynamics of this prestigious international gathering. Stay tuned for updates on this unfolding story.
