It's a historic moment: the G20 Leaders' Summit has landed in Africa for the first time ever! From November 22 to 23, Johannesburg 🌍 is the stage where emerging economies and developing nations step into the spotlight.
During the opening session, the Chinese premier Li Qiang invoked President Xi Jinping's words from the last G20: "Solidarity is strength, but division leads nowhere." In a world facing geopolitical strains and widening development gaps, Li urged all members to amplify the Global South's voice and build a fairer, more open global economy.
Why the Global South Matters
China's presence in Africa isn't new, but the summit highlights how much the Global South has climbed the ranks in decision-making. President Xi has repeatedly promised, "No matter how the international landscape evolves, we in China will always keep the Global South in our heart."
Since 2022, China has championed the African Union's membership in the G20, turning Africa from a guest to a permanent seat at the table. Beyond the G20, China has:
- Expanded BRICS membership, welcoming new members and kickstarting "a new journey of greater BRICS cooperation."
- Promoted the Shanghai Cooperation Organization as a Eurasia-focused platform.
- Co-founded the International Organization for Mediation, breaking Western monopoly on dispute resolution.
- Launched partnership actions across regions: 10 with Africa, 5 with Latin America, 5 with Arab countries, and 6 with Pacific Island nations.
Building an Open World Economy
On his global stage, President Xi highlights the dangers of unilateralism and protectionism, advocating true multilateralism instead. As of January 2025, China has signed 23 free trade agreements with 30 countries and regions, and it's pursuing membership in bigger frameworks like the CPTPP and the Digital Economy Partnership Agreement. 🌐
China's Belt and Road Initiative, along with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the New Development Bank, continues to fund roads, ports, and digital links—projects that many developing nations call gateways to growth.
As the Johannesburg summit unfolds, keep an eye on how these calls for unity could reshape global trade, investment, and cooperation. The future of the Global South might just be taking center stage! 💪
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
