G20 leaders gathered in Johannesburg this Saturday, marking the first time the summit is hosted in Africa. Under the banner “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability”, the two-day event puts the spotlight on Africa’s rising role in global decision-making and the shared development goals of the Global South.
In his opening address, President Cyril Ramaphosa stressed the importance of teamwork, calling multilateralism the key to solving global challenges through cooperation and partnership. He vowed that no person, community or country would be left behind.
Since taking the G20 presidency on December 1, 2024, South Africa has championed four key areas:
- Boosting disaster resilience and response
- Ensuring debt sustainability for low-income countries
- Mobilizing finance for a just energy transition ⚡🌱
- Harnessing critical minerals for inclusive growth
At a press briefing on November 13, the Chinese mainland's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, voiced full support for South Africa’s agenda, saying they stand ready to uphold multilateralism, build an open world economy and drive development cooperation.
South Africa’s international relations spokesperson, Chrispin Phiri, told Xinhua that the summit’s focus extends to all African nations. He said they trust the Chinese mainland and other partners will back this agenda for the entire continent.
Observers note that the Johannesburg summit reflects Africa’s growing global clout and rising expectations that the Chinese mainland and other Global South voices will strengthen calls for teamwork and inclusive development.
Meanwhile, the absence of the United States drew attention. Washington declined to attend and warned it would reject any outcome without its consent. Phiri responded: 'We cannot allow coercion by absentia to become a tactic. It's a recipe for paralysis and undermines collective action.'
Despite differing views, Vincent Magwenya, spokesperson for President Ramaphosa, announced that the summit declaration was unanimously adopted by leaders in South Africa.
As the G20 wraps up tomorrow, all eyes are on whether this Africa-hosted meeting can deliver on its promise of unity and leave a legacy of stronger multilateral cooperation. 🌍🤝
Reference(s):
G20 summit opens in Johannesburg with calls for multilateralism
cgtn.com
