China's Foreign Ministry has announced that President Xi Jinping will be absent from the upcoming G-20 summit in New Delhi, marking the first time he has skipped this significant annual diplomatic event. Instead, China will be represented by Premier Li Qiang, the second-ranked leader. While no official reasons have been provided for President Xi's absence, this development is notable as China has traditionally placed special emphasis on the G-20 summit as a crucial platform to influence the global order and showcase its growing influence on the world stage.
President Xi had recently attended the BRICS summit in South Africa on August 24, where he expressed support for expanding the grouping's influence. During the same event, President Xi and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi held an informal conversation on the sidelines to discuss the unresolved crisis along the Line of Actual Control.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized the importance of the G-20 summit in the current global context, where the world economy faces challenges and downward pressure. Mao urged the G-20 to strengthen international economic cooperation and address global economic and development challenges to contribute to global economic recovery and sustainable development.
When questioned about President Xi's absence, Mao declined to provide a specific reason but reiterated China's historical commitment to the G-20. Premier Li Qiang is expected to represent China's views and proposals at the summit, aiming to enhance solidarity and cooperation among G-20 nations in addressing global challenges.
In addition to President Xi's absence, Russian President Vladimir Putin and Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador have also expressed regrets at being unable to attend the summit. Russia will be represented by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, while Mexico will be represented by Economy Minister Raquel Buenrostro Sanchez.
Official sources downplayed the absence of these leaders, stating that in today's busy world, it is not always possible for every leader to attend every summit. They pointed out that similar situations have occurred in the past, emphasizing that such absences do not reflect on the host country. It was noted that six leaders did not attend the Rome G-20 summit in 2021.
Negotiators are currently working towards a joint statement for the summit, although there are challenges, particularly regarding references to Ukraine and differences between developed and developing countries on issues such as climate financing. Additionally, Chinese officials have raised objections to some of India's proposed additions, including the use of the Sanskrit phrase Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam.