South Africa Utilises G20 Presidency to Promote Shared Goals and Global Cooperation

South Africa has taken over the G20 Presidency this month, aiming to advance the collective objectives of its member nations. Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, highlighted this during the initial G20 Sherpas meeting. He stated that South Africa's presidency will focus on "Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability," aiming to unite global efforts to tackle significant global challenges.

Focus on Shared Goals

South Africa plans to make urgent progress on shared goals through several priority actions. These include enhancing disaster resilience, ensuring debt sustainability for low-income nations, mobilising finance for a just energy transition, and leveraging critical minerals for inclusive growth. Lamola emphasised addressing these issues through high-level deliverables and priorities aligned with the G20's original mandate.

Lamola announced that three temporary task forces, an initiative, and a commission will be formed during South Africa's G20 Presidency. These will focus on inclusive economic growth, industrialisation, employment, reduced inequality, food security, and AI-driven innovation for sustainable development. A review titled "The G20 at 20 years: A Reflection on Key Achievements and the Way Forward" will also be part of South Africa's agenda.

Strengthening Multilateral Institutions

The minister stressed the importance of reinforcing multilateral institutions with economic and developmental roles. He reaffirmed that the UN should remain central to this multilateral approach. "We must remain committed to multilateralism and upholding international law and ensure that the UN remains the centrepiece of this multilateralism," he said.

South Africa also intends to continue Brazil's efforts in enhancing democratic global engagement within the G20 framework. A G20 Social Forum is planned before the Leaders’ Summit in November 2025. This forum aims to gather representatives from existing engagement groups and other civil society segments to contribute meaningfully to the G20 discussions.

Addressing Global Challenges

Lamola highlighted the need for multilateral institutions to deliver broad global consensus and serve as platforms for resolving disputes. He called for strengthening these institutions as their intervention is crucial now more than ever. The minister also urged the G20 to spotlight Agenda 2063 of the African Union, advocating for practical cooperation that supports a fairer international order.

Despite facing divisive geopolitics and unprecedented challenges like climate change and poverty, Lamola believes the G20 can foster mutually beneficial cooperation. He emphasised that this cooperation should champion an international order that is fairer, just, inclusive, and representative.

As South Africa leads the G20, it aims to build on past achievements while setting a future-focused agenda. By promoting universal values and strong partnerships across all sectors of society, South Africa seeks collective solutions to global issues during its presidency.