G20 finance talks end with China dissent

G20 finance ministers and central bank governors concluded their two-day meeting in Asheville, North Carolina, on September 1-2, 2026, issuing a final statement that all members except China endorsed in full. The meeting was overshadowed by the presence of Russian Finance Minister Anton Siluanov, which drew criticism from European allies, and by ongoing geopolitical tensions including the Middle East war and US tariffs. The statement called for free navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a waterway largely blocked by Iran since the war began in late February. China also dissented from language on 'excessive and persistent imbalances' and non-market policies, reflecting disputes over industrial overcapacity. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent defended engagement with Russia, noting Siluanov is unsanctioned. Germany separately accused Russia of a hybrid attack involving a drone at a German airport. The meeting set the stage for a G20 leaders' summit in Miami in December, and G7 members discussed continued support for Ukraine.