South Africa is hopeful that the upcoming G20 summit will play a crucial role in reinforcing multilateralism and advancing the reform of international governance institutions.
The remarks were made by South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, during a press briefing in Pretoria on Tuesday, as he outlined the country’s foreign policy stance and expectations for the upcoming discussions.
The G20 summit, scheduled for November 18-19 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is expected to provide a platform for world leaders to review agreements made throughout the year and discuss strategies for addressing global challenges.
Lamola highlighted that South Africa, in its capacity as a member of the G20 Troika alongside Brazil and India, has been actively involved in supporting the reform of global governance institutions—an issue that is a top priority for Brazil.
“The G20 leaders must continue their efforts towards a revitalized and strengthened multilateral system,” Lamola stated.
“This system should be grounded in the principles and goals of the United Nations Charter and international law, with institutions that are more representative, transparent, effective, and accountable.
Such reform would better reflect the socio-economic and political realities of the 21st century.”
Lamola also emphasized that South Africa views the G20 as a vital platform to advance the aspirations of developing countries, particularly the development priorities of Africa.
He stressed the importance of the G20’s ongoing support for emerging economies and developing nations, with a strong focus on achieving sustainable development goals.
Looking ahead, Lamola pointed to South Africa’s upcoming presidency of the G20, set to begin on December 1, 2024.
South Africa will host the G20 summit in 2025, a significant opportunity for the country to further champion the interests of the global South and shape the future direction of multilateral cooperation.
