Mr. Zane Dangor, South Africa’s G20 Sherpa, briefed the UN General Assembly on the nation’s G20 Presidency, emphasizing the themes of solidarity, equality, and sustainability. South Africa aims to address pressing global issues such as inequality and climate change while enhancing international cooperation. The G20 Presidency features strategic priorities like disaster resilience, debt sustainability for low-income countries, and a Just Energy Transition, reflecting a dedication to uplifting the Global South.
In a recent briefing to the United Nations General Assembly, Mr. Zane Dangor, the G20 Sherpa from South Africa, highlighted the nation’s priorities as it assumes the G20 presidency, marking a significant milestone for the African continent. Mr. Dangor noted the necessity to address pressing global issues, drawing inspiration from Nelson Mandela’s enduring words that echo the themes of poverty, injustice, and inequality. The central theme for South Africa’s G20 Presidency is “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,” underlining the nation’s commitment to these principles.
The importance of informing the General Assembly was reiterated as Mr. Dangor emphasized the resolution passed in 2017, which encourages collaboration between the UN and global intergovernmental groups. He affirmed the UN’s role as the principal deliberative body in global governance while stating that the G20 aims to complement existing UN structures without creating parallel frameworks. The newly adopted Pact of the Future from the UN Summit provides an avenue for enhancing global governance, with South Africa actively working to integrate this into the G20 agenda.
Mr. Dangor conveyed a sense of urgency regarding current global crises affecting humanity, such as poverty, geopolitical tensions, and climate change, which jeopardize the future for forthcoming generations. He indicated that inequality remains a significant barrier to growth and development, particularly for low-income nations, signaling a critical need to accelerate progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
In his address, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa reiterated that the timeline for achieving the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development is nearing its deadline. He set the stage for South Africa’s G20 Presidency, advocating for a people-centered and inclusive approach to development that acknowledges the interconnected nature of today’s challenges. The philosophy of Ubuntu, representing a collective human experience, underlies South Africa’s leadership vision for its G20 agenda.
The South African G20 priorities include enhancing disaster resilience, ensuring debt sustainability for low-income countries, financing a Just Energy Transition, and leveraging critical minerals for sustainable development. Furthermore, the establishment of three Task Forces will tackle essential areas such as economic growth, food security, and the governance of emerging technologies, ensuring that the initiatives complement existing global agendas such as the Global Digital Compact.
Additional strategic initiatives focus on creating a broadened Compact with Africa, reviewing the G20’s impact over its cycles, and advocating for climate action along with gender equality. Mr. Dangor emphasized the necessity of strengthening multilateral frameworks and enhancing international cooperation to address the complexities of the current landscape.
As we approach significant anniversaries, including the 80th of the UN, South Africa’s call for reform of the UN aligns with its commitment to elevate the voices of developing nations within the international forum. This reform is deemed crucial for amplifying Africa’s representation in pressing global matters while working to reinforce the multilateral system against growing isolationist trends.
In conclusion, South Africa’s Presidency represents a critical shift towards empowering the Global South within global economic governance. The collaboration between the G20 and the UN must be vital to address global challenges effectively, fostering lasting peace and stability. Through resilience, inclusivity, and the spirit of cooperation, South Africa aims to leave a significant legacy in the G20 for future generations.
In summary, South Africa’s G20 Presidency is marked by a commitment to the principles of solidarity, equality, and sustainability. Underlying this commitment is a focus on addressing pressing global issues such as inequality, climate change, and financial stability for low-income countries. By leveraging initiatives aligned with the G20’s goals, South Africa seeks to strengthen international cooperation and amplify the voices of the Global South, thereby shaping a collaborative future that prioritizes our common humanity and mutual growth.
Original Source: allafrica.com
