Ramaphosa Highlights G20 Achievements and Future Priorities at Johannesburg Summit
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa closed the two-day G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg on Sunday, emphasising the need for continued evaluation and reform to ensure the bloc remains relevant in a rapidly evolving global landscape. Speaking at the conclusion of the summit, Ramaphosa expressed confidence that the review of the G20, conducted under South Africa’s presidency, will provide a meaningful framework for the group as it navigates complex economic and social challenges.
Despite skepticism from some international leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, who questioned the value and longevity of the G20, Ramaphosa maintained that the review process is essential. He highlighted the importance of adapting the bloc to meet the needs of the global south and emerging economies.
“Closing the two-day summit, I emphasise that the review should continue into 2026,” Ramaphosa said. “We hope the insights gained under South Africa’s presidency will serve as a useful guide to ensure the G20 remains fit for purpose in an ever-changing world.”
South Africa’s presidency placed the priorities of Africa and developing nations at the centre of the G20 agenda, marking a shift from traditional focuses to issues that directly affect millions of people across the continent and the wider global south.
Ramaphosa Calls for Continued Review of the G20
Building on the presidencies of Indonesia, India, and Brazil, the 2025 G20 summit prioritised the issues that matter most to developing economies. Under Ramaphosa’s leadership, the discussions went beyond macroeconomic policy to address sustainable development, social equity, and climate resilience.
While incoming G20 president Donald Trump has indicated a return to the bloc’s traditional economic priorities, Ramaphosa emphasised the summit’s commitment to broader global concerns, including human welfare and social justice.
“We have laid the foundation of solidarity, now we must build the walls of justice and the roof of prosperity,” Ramaphosa said. “Let us move forward together, demonstrating to the world that we have the capacity to confront and overcome the world’s challenges.”
Among the summit’s major achievements was the mobilisation of financing for a just energy transition, ensuring that the shift to renewable energy sources benefits communities equitably. Leaders also made commitments to respond to the increasing effects of disasters and climate change, highlighting the importance of resilience and preparedness in vulnerable regions.
Critical minerals, essential for technological and industrial development, were also a focal point, with agreements to leverage these resources for sustainable prosperity. Ramaphosa underscored the G20’s role in promoting responsible resource management that drives economic growth while protecting the environment.
“We recognised the need for deep, rapid, and sustained reductions in greenhouse gas emissions and the need to substantially scale up investment and climate finance from all sources,” Ramaphosa said. He added that these measures are essential for achieving long-term sustainability and ensuring that developing nations are not left behind in the global energy transition.
Ramaphosa stressed that G20 leaders bear the responsibility of accelerating progress toward the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The summit also focused on the “Pact for the Future,” a collective commitment to social equity, economic inclusion, and environmental stewardship.
“The G20 must demonstrate its ability to implement meaningful change, translating commitments into action,” Ramaphosa said. “Our goal is to ensure that the outcomes of this summit tangibly improve the lives of people across the world.”
The summit concluded with a strong reaffirmation of cooperation among member states, with a focus on global solidarity, justice, and prosperity. Ramaphosa highlighted that South Africa’s presidency had set the tone for a G20 that is more inclusive, forward-looking, and responsive to global challenges.
As the baton passes to the next presidency, Ramaphosa emphasised the importance of continuity and review. He called on incoming leaders to maintain momentum on the issues championed during South Africa’s tenure, including climate finance, disaster preparedness, sustainable energy, and equitable growth.
“Our work is not complete,” Ramaphosa concluded. “We must continue the review and ensure that the G20 is equipped to meet the demands of a world in flux. Together, we can build a future that is just, prosperous, and sustainable for all.”
Under Ramaphosa’s leadership, the Johannesburg G20 summit underscored the potential for global cooperation to tackle pressing challenges while highlighting Africa’s critical role in shaping international policy.
Source- EWN
