Following in the wake of terror attacks, international terrorism was firmly on the agenda at the G20. At a side meeting of BRIC held parallel to the main summit, it was a major topic of discussion. The presidents of Brazil, Russia, India, and China, and others reiterated their commitment to strengthen their cooperation in the fight against terrorism.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, who chaired the meeting, took the floor to express condolences. Other leaders soon took to the stage. Dilma Rousseff, President of Brazil, denounced the attacks on Paris as barbaric, and expressed regret for the friends and families of the victims. “I’m sure all of us at this meeting are dismayed, and we wish to express our full solidarity with President Francois Hollande and the French people.”
The President of China Xi Jinping explained that China will improve “cooperation to fight terrorism in all its manifestations.” Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, said that humanity must be united against terrorism and highlighted the need for a coordinated global effort. Jacob Zuma, the South African president also expressed sorrow for the attacks in Paris, but used a cautious tone saying not to label refugees can as terrorists. “Refugees flocking into Europe in search of peace and a better life must not be labelled and ostracised as a result of this attack” he warned. Naturally, the meeting also saw economic discussion. The countries agreed to continuously contribute for the promotion of more rapid and sustainable recovery of the global economy. For this aim, it will continue to work together with the other members of the G20.
