G20 Leaders Convene in Rio Amid Global Trade and Climate Uncertainties

World leaders have gathered in Rio de Janeiro for the annual G20 summit, centering discussions on global poverty, climate finance, and international trade stability. Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva opened the forum by launching a Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, aiming to secure commitments from member nations to address social inequality. The summit takes place as negotiators at the COP29 climate talks in Azerbaijan look to G20 leaders for a breakthrough on funding for developing countries. While Brazil seeks to focus the agenda on sustainable development, observers note that geopolitical tensions and potential shifts in future U.S. policy are casting a shadow over the proceedings. Diplomats remain divided on the language regarding regional conflicts, though some progress has been reported on a proposed global tax on billionaires.