EUROPEAN UNION-REST OF THE G-20
The stalled economic recovery of the 18-nation euro common currency area will likely draw encouragement from other G-20 members for additional stimulus to help get growth back on track. European Central Bank President Mario Draghi has said the bank may begin asset purchases to pump money into the regional economy and spur inflation. Japan's recent decision to expand stimulus, and thus drive down the value of the yen, may help alleviate opposition to such stimulus from Germany, whose exports compete with Japan's.
AUSTRALIA-INDONESIA
Tensions between the G-20 host and neighboring Indonesia, the world's biggest Muslim nation, have periodically flared in recent years, but Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott has welcomed the recent election of Indonesian President Joko “Jokowi” Widodo. Indonesia has emerged as a leader of the Southeast Asian region, helping to mediate disputes and espousing a moderate form of Islam, but Jokowi must contend with slowing growth, endemic corruption and crumbling infrastructure.
