Rio de Janeiro: The Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro, known for its vibrant samba culture and iconic carnival, is set to transition into a global economic hub by hosting the 19th G20 Summit, with Angola participating as an observer state. This significant event underscores Rio’s evolving role on the world stage.
According to Angola Press News Agency, the G20, which represents approximately 85% of global GDP, more than 75% of international trade, and about two-thirds of the world’s population, will convene in Rio de Janeiro from Monday (18) to Tuesday (19). The city’s renowned cultural heritage, including samba music and dance, will serve as a backdrop for discussions among the world’s economic leaders.
In addition to its vibrant cultural scene, Rio de Janeiro offers a plethora of tourist attractions that captivate millions of visitors annually. Notable sites include the iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, Sugarloaf Mountain, and the famous beaches of Copacabana and Ipanema. The city’s rich cultural tapestry
extends to the Botanical Garden, Maracanã Stadium, Escadaria Selarón, Lagoa Rodrigo de Freitas, Parque Lage, and the Museum of Modern Art (MAM), the latter serving as the venue for the G20 summit.
Opened in 1948, MAM is a significant cultural institution in Brazil, designed by Paris-born architect Affonso Eduardo Reidy. The museum boasts an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring approximately 15,000 works. MAM also hosts a Cinematheque, the second oldest film archive in the country, highlighting its cultural importance.
The iconic Christ the Redeemer statue, perched atop Corcovado Hill within Tijuca National Park, is another major attraction. As one of the largest Art Deco-style statues globally, it stands at 30 meters high and weighs 1145 tons, symbolizing Rio’s religious and cultural heritage.
Rio de Janeiro, the host city of the G20 Leaders Summit, serves as the capital of the state of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil’s Southeast Region. With a population estimated at over 16 million peo
ple and a GDP per capita of R$49,094.40, the city’s diverse economy positions it as a financial and commercial center, home to numerous national and international companies.
The history of Rio de Janeiro is deeply intertwined with Brazil’s formation, from its founding by the Portuguese in 1565 to pivotal historical events such as the Proclamation of the Republic. The city’s cultural identity is shaped by a fusion of indigenous, Portuguese, and African influences.
As a cultural and entertainment hub, Rio de Janeiro attracts global visitors with events like Carnival and New Year’s Eve. Its culinary scene, featuring dishes such as feijoada and beach delicacies, reflects the city’s cultural diversity.
Rio de Janeiro, often referred to as the “Wonderful City,” is a Brazilian treasure where natural beauty meets cultural richness, creating a captivating mosaic that enchants the world.