G20 Finance Ministers Call for Safe Navigation in Strait of Hormuz

At the conclusion of a two-day G20 finance ministers' meeting in Asheville, North Carolina, on September 1, 2026, the ministers issued a statement emphasizing the importance of freedom, security, and predictability of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz and worldwide, as well as the resolution of ongoing wars and conflicts, for sustainable growth. The paragraph on Hormuz was approved by all G20 members except China. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent expressed disappointment at not achieving unanimity, noting China's dissent on several paragraphs, including those on global imbalances and the common framework for sovereign debt restructuring. The summit was also marked by the presence of Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, invited by Washington, which caused discomfort among European delegates. Bessent stated that Siluanov's presence had no impact on the discussions, while EU officials stressed the importance of not normalizing Russia's participation. The EU ensured Siluanov was excluded from the traditional family photo, and media were kept away during its taking.