Rio de Janeiro: South Africa is set to play a pivotal role at the upcoming G20 Summit next week in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, as it prepares to assume the G20 presidency in December. The G20 Leaders’ Summit, scheduled from 18-19 November 2024, will convene leaders from the 19 member countries, alongside representatives from the African Union and the European Union.
According to South African Government News Agency, the G20 represents nearly 60% of the global population, 80% of global gross domestic product (GDP), and 75% of global exports, positioning it as a crucial platform for international economic collaboration and sustainable development. During a media briefing, International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola highlighted the G20’s role as a leading forum for facilitating global economic cooperation. He emphasized that for South Africa, the G20 serves as an essential vehicle for advancing the economic interests of the Global South, particularly Africa’s development priorities.
The summit w
ill mark the end of Brazil’s rotating G20 presidency, with world leaders set to review and approve agreements tackling pressing global issues. Minister Lamola stressed the importance of supporting emerging and developing economies in achieving sustainable development, which is vital for global stability, security, and reducing resource pressures, population movements, and conflict risks. He affirmed South Africa’s commitment to supporting the President at the G20 Summit in Brazil, where agreements negotiated throughout the year will be approved, and strategies for addressing global challenges will be outlined.
South Africa is already taking a proactive role as a member of the G20 Troika, alongside Brazil and India, backing Brazil’s priority of reforming Global Governance Institutions. At the summit, G20 leaders are expected to push efforts for a revitalized multilateral system that aligns with the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and international law. This includes renewed institutions
and reformed governance that is more representative, effective, transparent, and accountable, reflecting the social, economic, and political realities of the 21st century.
The summit also sets the stage for South Africa’s upcoming presidency of the G20, which it will assume on 01 December 2024. South Africa plans to soon announce its presidential agenda, detailing its priorities for advancing the aspirations of developing countries and promoting sustainable development across Africa and beyond.