President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, joining fellow world leaders at the G20 Leaders’ Summit. This gathering is particularly meaningful for South Africa, as we’ll be taking over the G20 presidency next year. The summit’s theme, “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet,” really speaks to the challenges we’re all facing together.
Brazil’s G20 Presidency Focus Areas
Under Brazil’s leadership, the G20 has been working on issues that matter to everyone. They’ve put special attention on helping people who need it most, making sure everyone has enough to eat, and finding better ways to power our world. Brazil has also been pushing for changes in how global organizations work, so that more countries have a say in important decisions.
South Africa’s Agenda at the Summit
Our country is bringing some important topics to the table. President Ramaphosa is speaking up about things that matter to South Africans and many others around the world. In his talks, he focuses on:
- Finding real solutions to end hunger
- Creating opportunities to lift people out of poverty
- Making global organizations work better for everyone
“We’re not just here to talk – we’re here to make real changes that will help people back home and across Africa.” – President Ramaphosa
Key Event: Renewable Energy Campaign Launch
A bright spot of the summit is South Africa’s new renewable energy initiative. We’re starting something called “Leveraging the Potential of Renewables – The Road to Johannesburg Campaign.” It’s all about finding clean ways to power our homes and businesses, which is something South Africa really needs right now.
Incoming G20 Presidency
Come December 1, 2024, South Africa will be in charge of the G20. We’ve chosen “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability” as our message to the world. What’s nice is how we’re planning to build on what other developing countries have started, making sure everyone’s voice is heard.
Strategic Importance of the G20
The G20 is quite important – it brings together countries that:
- Make up about 85% of the world’s economic output
- Handle about 75% of world trade
- Represent about two-thirds of the world’s population
South Africa’s Foreign Policy Goals
We’re working with four main ideas in mind:
- Looking after South African interests
- Supporting African progress
- Working with other developing nations
- Helping make global organizations better
Bilateral Engagement and Accompanying Delegation
President Ramaphosa isn’t alone in Brazil. Minister Ronald Lamola and Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni are there too, and they’re all planning to meet with other countries’ leaders. These meetings are great chances to talk about things that matter to South Africa and build stronger friendships with other nations.
“Working together, we can make the G20 work better for everyone, especially those who need it most.” – Minister Lamola