President Cyril Ramaphosa has challenged the G20 to step up and address critical global challenges while championing Africa's growing influence on the world stage, during his address to the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting.
In a historic moment for the continent, the summit emphasized the urgent need for solidarity, equality, and sustainability in addressing interconnected crises ranging from climate change to geopolitical conflicts.
"The world is at a critical juncture, and the G20 must rise to the occasion," Ramaphosa declared, highlighting the significance of the upcoming G20 Leaders' Summit in Africa.
This marks the first time the summit will be held on African soil, underscoring the continent's growing economic and political clout and providing a platform for African voices to be heard on global issues like sustainable development and the digital economy.
Ramaphosa outlined key areas where the G20 must focus its efforts: bolstering disaster resilience, securing debt sustainability for low-income countries (particularly in Africa), mobilizing finance for a just energy transition, and harnessing critical minerals for inclusive growth that benefits both developing and developed nations.
"We must ensure that the exploitation of these resources leads to real economic benefits for African communities," he emphasized.
The meeting underscored the urgent need for diplomatic solutions to escalating conflicts, particularly in the Middle East, calling on the G20 to actively advocate for peaceful resolutions and sustainable peace.
The devastating impacts of climate change, disproportionately affecting vulnerable nations, were also a central concern.
The president emphasized the need to secure increased climate finance for developing countries and leverage private capital.
Several actionable items were issued during the summit, including strengthening disaster resilience by scaling up post-disaster reconstruction efforts through international financial institutions and private sector involvement.
There were also calls to renew efforts to ensure debt sustainability, particularly for African nations. The attendees agreed to secure more funding to aid in the global energy transition and green industrialization and investment to promote value addition and beneficiation of critical minerals.
The President said: “We hope this platform will facilitate commerce and solutions to global challenges.”
He also thanked the Ambassador and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Brazil for hosting the delegation and welcomed the incoming member of the Troika, the United States of America.
"These interconnected challenges – geopolitical tensions, rising intolerance, conflict, climate change, pandemics, and food insecurity, demand inclusive and coordinated responses. The G20 must reflect the needs and aspirations of all people globally,” Ramaphosa stated.
The summit's emphasis on Africa’s role in global issues highlights a significant shift in international dynamics.
Africa faces unique challenges, including the effects of climate change, growing developmental needs, and global trade dynamics.
The summit provides an unprecedented opportunity for the continent to shape the global agenda.
As the world grapples with complex and interconnected challenges, the G20 Foreign Ministers Meeting has set the stage for concrete action and a renewed commitment to global cooperation, with Africa at the forefront.