As the G20 Summit was underway in Rome, President Joe Biden of the United States paused to take selfies with both first responders and medical personnel, according to a report by CNN. Some other leaders joined them on stage. These personnel, who were crucial in combating the coronavirus, were brought on stage to honor them for their selfless service during the pandemic. The G20 summit is also the first time world leaders of the group have met in person since COVID-19 spread across the world.
The global toll of the pandemic is close to five million people. First responders and medical personnel were at the forefront in the fight to save lives. Despite their efforts, more than 4.9 million people died due to COVID-19; of whom over 745,000 were Americans. The president has been urging people in the nation to get vaccinated and over 57 percent of the population has been vaccinated.
The leaders, who are currently in Rome, are expected to discuss several issues, some of which are
the pandemic
global chain supply issues
combating climate change
high energy prices
a global, minimum tax and more.
The first session of the G20 begins on Saturday. A senior administration official told CNN that Biden will be bringing up crucial issues including energy supply issues as well as a minimum global tax. The global minimum tax has been a pet project of Biden. His administration has been negotiating with leaders to end what is a race-to-the bottom on corporate tax rates that is prevalent in some countries around the world.
Biden is also expected to meet several leaders from the European Union as well as the U.K. Another major discussion that is expected is a return to the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). This plan aims to give Iran relief from sanctions and will look to rein in the country’s nuclear program in exchange.
