Atlanta,: G20 countries agree that threats to shipping, food supplies, and critical minerals demand urgent attention, but remain divided over their causes and solutions, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said at the close of the Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Atlanta.

Addressing reporters at the conclusion of the talks, Rubio described the recognition of shared global problems as a necessary first step, though he stopped short of claiming the gathering produced a common approach to resolving them. The discussions primarily centred on energy, technology, supply chains, and freedom of navigation, forming part of preparations for the upcoming G20 leaders’ summit in Florida in December.

Rubio stated that President Donald Trump had directed the US G20 Presidency to refocus the forum on its core economic purpose, though ongoing geopolitical conflicts complicated those efforts. He pointed to the Russia-Ukraine war, conflicts in the Middle East, and fighting in Sudan, Congo, and Rwanda as major challenges affecting the wider global economic agenda.

While participating nations acknowledged the importance of secure supply chains and food security, sharp differences emerged over the underlying causes of disruptions and appropriate government responses. Rubio noted that while some nations are already cooperating on supply chains and critical minerals, these initiatives do not yet represent a universally accepted consensus.

Maritime security featured prominently during the meetings, with Rubio accusing Iran of targeting commercial vessels and highlighting ongoing US defence operations against drones and missiles. He also cited coercion in Asian waterways as a direct threat to economic activity, warning that maritime disruptions could prevent energy, fertiliser, and agricultural products from reaching global markets.

Discussing regional solutions, Rubio identified India and Turkey as countries contributing constructive ideas to help secure shipments in the Black Sea region. However, he cautioned against treating international interest as evidence that a comprehensive diplomatic agreement is close at hand.

Addressing the implications for businesses and workers facing economic uncertainty, Rubio explained that the G20 focuses on long-term structural challenges rather than immediate cost-of-living adjustments. He noted that energy availability, critical minerals, and reliable supply chains will ultimately dictate global economic resilience and the cost of goods over the coming decades.