The road from the historic Recoleta neighborhood to the G20 Media Center in Buenos Aires is empty. Aside from motorcades and buses with journalists, only pedestrians and bicycle riders can go through.
Even though the central part of the city is on lockdown, most locals seem to be fine with restrictive measures, showing their papers to police, crossing checkpoints and going about their business.
Following last year's violent clashes during the G20 summit in Hamburg, journalists brought protective gear to the Buenos Aires rally, but, luckily, it wasn't needed. It appears that most aggressive members of the anti-capitalist crowd, who were present in Germany, just didn't make it to Argentina.
The atmosphere at the G20 media center was just as relaxing as the mood in the streets of Argentina's capital. Journalists had a chance to taste local specialties — empanadas and desserts with dulce de leche topped with a glass of excellent Malbec wine.
Local small and medium enterprises were showcasing their products at the summit venue.
Argentina's government has put a lot of effort into promoting local brands. Igor's "Nuestras Manos" company is one of the country's many enterprises that went through certification process and received the special "Quality Seal".
The authorities spent millions of dollars on the summit's security and invested heavily into promoting local products, tourist destinations and investment opportunities. Argentina became the first South American country to host the G20, and, judging by the overall summit mood, it was a positive experience. But whether this "G20 moment" will bring more long-term effects, helping to improve the country's economy — remains to be seen.