Johannesburg: President Cyril Ramaphosa has declared the historic G20 Leaders' Summit held in Johannesburg over the weekend a 'success' that has placed Africa firmly at the heart of the leading intergovernmental forum's agenda. The President addressed the nation through the weekly newsletter released on Monday.
According to South African Government News Agency, President Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of the event, stating, "Over the past two days, our country hosted leaders from around the world for the G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg. This is the first time that the G20 has been hosted on African soil. Recognising the importance of this milestone, we have placed Africa's growth and development at the heart of the G20's agenda."
The President noted that South Africa's participation in the G20 is critical not only for cementing the country's role in international affairs but also to 'support our own growth and create jobs for South Africans'. He remarked, "We can only achieve these objectives in an environment of global stability, inclusive growth and a level playing field."
During the summit, leaders reached consensus for a declaration. Commitments were also made aimed at addressing some of the world's most pressing challenges. "We secured a clear commitment from the international community to address the high levels of debt which divert spending by developing economies - including our own - on infrastructure, health and education," said President Ramaphosa.
Additionally, the G20 leaders agreed on the need for increased global investment for climate action, which is crucial for South Africa as it undertakes a just energy transition to a low carbon economy. "We have secured international agreement on a new approach to critical minerals so that they become a source of prosperity and sustainable development in the countries that produce them," President Ramaphosa added.
At the beginning of South Africa's G20 Presidency, the government emphasized inclusivity of all of society. "This has been the People's G20. It has given new prominence to engagement groups from across global society, bringing together sectors like business, labour, parliaments, scientists, think tanks, women, young people, start-ups, civil society, mayors and the media," the President stated.
President Ramaphosa expressed gratitude to the government leaders, G20 Sherpas, and officials who guided the deliberations. He also thanked South Africans for their contribution to the summit's success, highlighting the recognition of the country's values and the spirit of Ubuntu by foreign leaders and delegates.
"The success of the G20 Leader's Summit, together with the improving performance of our economy and growing confidence in our reform programme, shows that South Africa is a country on the rise," President Ramaphosa concluded.