The meeting discussed the G20's role in global governance, how to make the multilateral system more effective, and how to build common understanding on green growth, sustainable development, climate change and food security. In this regard, Minister Shanmugam suggested four areas where the G20 could show leadership:
· Working with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) to create effective firewalls to address the ongoing Eurozone crisis;
· Assisting countries in the development of sustainable cities in order to address cross-cutting issues like energy efficiency, waste management, and climate change more effectively;
· Moving the WTO Doha round forward; and
· Strengthening the Rule of Law in the international architecture.
Minister noted that in order to enhance its effectiveness, the G20 should engage relevant non-G20 members with expertise to address key global issues and strengthen the G20's engagement with the UN.
On the sidelines of the meeting, Minister Shanmugam took the opportunity to meet his counterparts from Australia, Cambodia, Canada, Norway and the United States.
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MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS
SINGAPORE
21 FEBRUARY 2012