Opening Spetial Feature
G20 Osaka Summit
The G20 Osaka Summit held on June 28 and 29, 2019 was the largest summit ever held in Japan's diplomatic history. This special feature outlines the outcomes and initiatives of the G20 Osaka Summit. (See Chapter 3-3-2(3))
G20 Osaka Summit, June 28, Osaka (Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office)
What is the G20?
The Group of Twenty, or the G20, was established as a forum that brings together the leaders of major developed and emerging countries to address economic and financial issues in the wake of the global financial crisis in September 2008. The GDP of the G20 members represents over 80% of the entire global economy. Continuing to gain in importance as the “premier forum for international economic cooperation,” the G20 discusses not only the world economy and trade but also other global issues, such as development, climate change and energy, and health, every year under a rotating presidency.
Japan's First Presidency of the G20
In 2019, Japan assumed the G20 presidency for the first time and hosted the G20 Osaka Summit as well as eight ministerial meetings across the country. At the G20 Osaka Summit hosted by Prime Minister Abe, leaders engaged in lively discussions on themes involving a complex mix of diverse national interests, such as international trade, global environmental issues, and the digital economy. The Osaka Leaders' Declaration was adopted as an outcome document.
Presidency Press Conference, June 29, Osaka
Key Outcomes of the G20 Osaka Summit
The G20 Osaka Summit produced many outcomes. For example, leaders confirmed the principles of free trade and agreed on reforming the WTO, taking into account the spate of trade disputes that has raised questions about the international free trade system. In addition, leaders shared the concept of Data Free Flow with Trust (DFFT), which will become the foundation for data use. The G20 also demonstrated to the world its strong commitment to many issues, including through the G20 Principles for Quality Infrastructure Investment and the “Osaka Blue Ocean Vision” for reducing marine plastic litter. Furthermore, the “Osaka Track” was launched to advance international rule-making for data governance.
Working Lunch June 28, Osaka (Photo: Cabinet Public Relations Office)
Food served at the working lunch (White rice from Fukushima on the bottom left) June 28, Osaka
Showcasing Japan to the World
The G20 Osaka Summit provided a valuable opportunity to showcase Japan to the world by extending hospitality and introducing Japanese food and culture to the participating leaders.
With consideration for the diverse cultural backgrounds of the guests and the wide range of tastes, world-class Japanese fusion cuisine was served at the leaders' dinner and working lunch that all the guests could enjoy. Under the theme of “the Integration of Sustainability and Gastronomy,” the menu was prepared under the supervision of Mr. Tsuji Yoshiki, the head of the Tsuji Culinary Institute Group (which runs a culinary institute and other schools). Efforts were made to promote the appeal and safety of Japanese food products, using a vast range of ingredients from the local Kansai region while also incorporating ingredients from areas recovering from the Great East Japan Earthquake.
Leaders and their partners were offered hospitality tailored to their individual needs. Questionnaires were conducted to understand participants' preferences, allergies, and religious dietary restrictions, and multiple menu options were served including halal. In addition to translating the menus on the table into the native languages of all leaders and their partners, other considerations were also made to ensure a leisurely and pleasant dining experience. The impeccable service provided by a group of butlers selected from all over Japan received praise from participants.
In the Cultural Program held before the dinner, leaders and their partners enjoyed performances on the theme of “Tradition and Diversity of Japan” by Mr. Nomura Mansai, Mr. Tsujii Nobuyuki, and Ms. Nakamaru Michie. During Mr. Tsujii's piano performance of “Flowers Will Bloom,” the background images showed the tragedy of the Great East Japan Earthquake, reconstruction efforts to date, and messages of appreciation for the assistance extended by the G20 members.
Cultural Program performances June 28, Osaka
Pianist Tsujii Nobuyuki (top), Kyogen performer Nomura Mansai (middle), and opera singer Nakamaru Michie (bottom)
At the International Media Center
The International Media Center at the G20 Osaka Summit venue was installed with the Government Exhibition Booth to introduce Japan's innovative technologies.
“Live Kitchen,” where foods were prepared in front of foreign reporters, provided samples of Osaka delicacies, such as takoyaki octopus balls and kushikatsu deep-fried skewers, as well as Japanese sake.
Such firsthand experiences helped deepen the foreign media's understanding of the appeals of Japan.
Government Exhibition Booth at the International Media Center
Live Kitchen
Following the G20 Aichi-Nagoya Foreign Ministers' Meeting
The G20 Osaka Summit was followed by the G20 Aichi-Nagoya Foreign Ministers' Meeting held in November that culminated the year of Japan's G20 presidency. The meeting reaffirmed the outcomes of the G20 Osaka Summit and served as a springboard for concrete initiatives in 2020 and beyond. Going forward, the G20 members are expected to translate the outcomes of the G20 Osaka Summit into concrete actions. Japan will continue to exert leadership in the G20 with Saudi Arabia, the G20 presidency in 2020.
Dinner hosted by Foreign Minister Motegi November 22, Nagoya
Foreign Minister Motegi handing over the presidency mallet to Saudi Arabia November 23, Nagoya