美财长缺席，G20陷入治理真空

Core Viewpoint - The G20 meeting in South Africa faced significant challenges due to the absence of key officials from multiple countries, particularly the U.S. Treasury Secretary, highlighting a shift towards unilateralism and trade protectionism in global economic governance [1][3][4]. Group 1: U.S. Participation and Global Governance - The absence of the U.S. Treasury Secretary at the G20 symbolizes a fundamental shift in U.S. global governance posture from active participation to an emphasis on "America First" [3][4]. - This lack of U.S. engagement undermines the G20's ability to form a consensus and issue a strong joint statement, reflecting a broader crisis in multilateral cooperation [3][6]. - The G20's role as a platform for major economies to coordinate policies is under unprecedented strain, with the absence of key finance ministers from countries like India, France, and Russia exacerbating the situation [3][6]. Group 2: Trade Protectionism and Economic Fragmentation - The rise of trade protectionism, driven by U.S. tariffs and trade restrictions, is distorting global trade order and transforming "trade liberalization" into a synonym for "trade protectionism" [4][6]. - The increasing trend of economic confrontation and tariff barriers is pushing the global economy towards greater isolation and conflict, with the risk of supply chain disruptions and declining consumer spending [6][9]. - The G20's inability to issue a clear and strong joint statement could render the meeting a mere symbolic event rather than a meaningful platform for cooperation [6][9]. Group 3: Structural Imbalances and Global Challenges - The G20 faces severe structural imbalances, including conflicts of interest between developed and developing countries, rising debt risks, and pressures from climate change [7]. - The lack of active participation from key nations has led to pronounced policy divergences and weakened cooperation, making global unity increasingly elusive [7][9]. - The current geopolitical landscape necessitates a more inclusive and resilient multilateral framework to address the growing uncertainties and confrontations in the global economy [9].