BREAKING: South Africa Assumes G20 Leadership From Brazil

BREAKING: South Africa Assumes G20 Leadership From Brazil

South Africa has made history by assuming the presidency of the G20, marking the first time an African nation has led this influential bloc of the world’s largest economies. This significant handover ceremony occurred during the recent G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

During the ceremony, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva officially passed the leadership baton to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.

In his commitment speech, President Ramaphosa expressed a strong dedication to advancing Africa’s development and advocating for the interests of the Global South throughout his term.

“We will use this moment to bring the development priorities of the African continent and the Global South more firmly onto the agenda of the G20,” Ramaphosa said.

President Ramaphosa outlined three key focus areas for South Africa’s term as president of the G20: fostering inclusive economic growth, addressing food security concerns, and harnessing the power of artificial intelligence and innovation to promote sustainable development goals.

He emphasized the goal of promoting global economic growth while ensuring that no one is left behind in the process.

Among the G20’s member countries, South Africa stands as the sole African representative.

However, in 2023, the African Union secured membership in the forum, signaling a growing acknowledgment of Africa’s pivotal role in shaping global policies and agendas.

Comprising 19 countries and the European Union, with Spain holding permanent guest status, the G20 includes major economic powerhouses like the United States, China, Germany, and India.

South Africa’s presidency marks a significant moment as the first African nation to steer the G20, aiming to advocate for critical issues such as industrialization, job creation, inequality reduction, and spearheading discussions on crucial global challenges.

“As South Africa, we undertake to advance the work of the G20 towards achieving greater global economic growth and sustainable development. We will work to ensure that no one is left behind,” Ramaphosa concluded.