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A special statement by the sherpas (personal representatives) of the leaders of the  Background information Group of Twenty – G20 Group of Twenty on international response to the coronavirus pandemic has been adopted.

The document summarises a set of coordinated measures to provide efficient protection of public health, preserve social stability and lower risks for the global economy.

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Statement on COVID-19

We, the representatives of the G20 Leaders, discussed the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on people and the global economy during the second Sherpa meeting in Khobar, Saudi Arabia on March 12, 2020. We are deeply saddened by the human tragedy caused by the spread of COVID-19 and stand in solidarity with all affected countries.

This pandemic calls for a robust international response. G20 countries will enhance cooperation and coordination to control the outbreak, protect people, mitigate the economic impact, and maintain economic stability, while avoiding stigmatization.

The protection of human lives is of paramount importance. G20 countries support and work closely with the World Health Organization (WHO) to monitor the outbreak, share relevant information, encourage preventive measures, early case detection, and clinical care. We underscore the importance of close cooperation between the international organizations and we invite them to report regularly to the G20 on their actions and assessment of needs. We will step up support for the development of early warning systems, appropriate treatments, and vaccines. Fighting the disease at home is our primary concern. In parallel, we will strengthen capacity building and technical assistance between us and to developing countries, whose health systems are often weaker and populations are more vulnerable.

Our health officials met earlier this month to discuss the health and social impact of COVID-19 and other infectious diseases. G20 countries will continue to lead efforts to enhance public health preparedness and response, as well as support the implementation of the International Health Regulations. We ask our health officials to continue to support the WHO in its response to the pandemic.

In their recent statement, G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors agreed to use all available policy tools, including fiscal and monetary measures as appropriate. We invite our finance officials to continue their ongoing work with international organizations to respond to the economic impact of COVID-19. We welcome the actions taken by countries to support economic activity. We support the IMF and World Bank commitments to extend financing to developing countries that need it and invite countries to strengthen funding facilities. We are committed to addressing the disruptions to international trade and market uncertainty due to the pandemic.

We are confident that, working closely together, we will overcome the COVID-19 outbreak and its implications, safeguard human lives, and protect the global economy. As a premier forum for international economic cooperation, we will demonstrate our ability to address the challenges and realize the opportunities of the 21st century.