President Cyril Ramaphosa officially launched South Africa’s Presidency of the Group of Twenty (G20) during a media briefing held in Cape Town on Tuesday. He was joined by Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana and Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola.
Ramaphosa emphasized that South Africa’s leadership in the G20 comes at a time when the world faces significant challenges, including the worsening climate crisis, widespread poverty, inequality, unemployment, and a global economic outlook that remains uncertain. He also pointed to geopolitical instability and conflict as additional sources of hardship, adding that while these challenges are shared, their impacts differ greatly across nations.
South Africa’s G20 Presidency will focus on fostering global cooperation to address these issues. The country has chosen the theme “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability” for its tenure, aiming to promote inclusive growth, justice, and climate change mitigation.
Ramaphosa highlighted that the G20, which comprises major global economies, plays a crucial role in shaping policies that impact global economic stability. He noted that the group’s agenda now includes trade, sustainable development, climate change, health, and anti-corruption efforts, among other areas.
Under South Africa’s leadership, the country intends to push for urgent progress on shared global goals, including advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030. South Africa also plans to bring the developmental priorities of Africa and the Global South to the forefront of the G20 agenda.
Among South Africa’s key priorities will be addressing the debt sustainability challenges faced by low-income countries, particularly in Africa. Ramaphosa stressed the need for debt relief and fair sovereign credit ratings to help these nations invest in vital infrastructure and services. Additionally, the G20 will work to mobilize finance for a just energy transition by enhancing climate finance flows to developing countries.
South Africa’s G20 Presidency will establish three task forces focused on: inclusive economic growth and reduced inequality; food security; and artificial intelligence and innovation for sustainable development. However, Ramaphosa emphasized that the G20’s focus should remain on addressing global economic challenges and not replace other international platforms like the United Nations.
Throughout the year, over 130 meetings will take place across South Africa, with tens of thousands of people from various countries and international organizations expected to attend. Ramaphosa expressed pride in the opportunity to showcase South Africa’s potential on the global stage, welcoming visitors to the country.
As the first African nation to hold the G20 Presidency, South Africa aims to make a lasting impact on global governance and ensure that the G20 remains a platform for collective progress. Ramaphosa concluded by calling for unity in making this presidency a success, preparing for a busy year in 2025 with numerous heads of state visiting South Africa.
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