Bessent Vows to Continue Economic Pressure on Iran at G20 Talks
US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent reiterated his commitment to maintain economic pressure on Iran during G20 finance talks in Asheville, North Carolina. He stated that a turning point could be near, within weeks or months, adding that Iran's economy does not need to collapse for this to happen.
The US is working to rally its G20 partners to intensify economic pressure on Iran amid renewed tensions with Tehran. European Union officials welcomed the efforts aimed at ensuring Iran ceases destabilizing activities and engages in peace negotiations.
French Finance Minister Roland Lescure told reporters that his country will discuss with the US whether it can help enhance sanctions against Iran. The G20 comprises 19 nations plus the EU and the African Union, established to boost global economic and financial stability after the 1997-1998 Asian financial crisis.
Trump's trade wars also weigh on the talks, with analysts warning that a US-Canada trade fight impacts unity among the Group of Seven advanced economies. G7 finance ministers are expected to meet on the margins of the Asheville talks.