Istanbul: Deputy President Paul Mashatile has committed South Africa’s G20 Presidency to advancing a robust Global South agenda emphasizing debt relief, inclusive growth, and sustainable development. Speaking at the Trkiye-Africa Business and Economic Forum (TABEF) in Istanbul, Mashatile declared South Africa’s intention to use its leadership of the influential economic forum to ‘amplify the voices of developing nations’ and push for a more equitable global financial system.
According to South African Government News Agency, Mashatile highlighted the significance of tackling debt sustainability, focusing on Africa and the Global South. He noted that the initiative aims to address weaknesses in the international debt architecture, including high financing costs and the prioritization of debt service over essential development needs. South Africa assumed the G20 Presidency on December 1, 2024, under the theme: ‘Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,’ which reflects the country’s vision for an inclusive global o
rder.
Mashatile pointed out that South Africa’s G20 Presidency marks a critical moment for Africa’s representation in global governance, with the African Union’s inclusion as a permanent G20 member. ‘The AU’s six priorities for its participation in the G20 all find expression in South Africa’s theme,’ he stated.
He also emphasized the importance of partnerships with like-minded nations, citing Trkiye as a key ally. Mashatile acknowledged Ankara’s early support for South Africa’s G20 leadership, stating that South Africa values partners whose stance on multilateral issues aligns with the ideals of the developing world.
During his visit, the Deputy President co-chaired the inaugural session of the South Africa-Trkiye Bi-National Commission, aimed at enhancing political and economic cooperation. He encouraged both countries to explore new opportunities in trade, investment, and technology, reinforcing that ‘the future belongs to those who build together, who look beyond borders, and who transform shared aspir
ations into shared prosperity.’
Mashatile outlined four priorities for South Africa’s G20 term, including strengthening disaster resilience and climate-related crisis response. He called for renewed cooperation in science, technology, and innovation to foster growth across the Global South. Invoking the African philosophy of ubuntu, he reminded that global challenges require collective solutions, stating, ‘Ubuntu reminds us of our shared humanity. It must guide our leadership in shaping a more equitable global order.’
The Trkiye-Africa Business and Economic Forum gathered African ministers, business leaders, and Turkish officials to enhance trade ties and discuss joint strategies for global challenges.