South Africa’s G20 Sherpa, Mr. Zane Dangor, outlined the G20 Presidency’s priorities during a UN General Assembly briefing. Emphasizing the themes of “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,” he discussed the need for UN-G20 cooperation to address global challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. Key G20 priorities include disaster resilience, debt sustainability, just energy transition, and the utilization of critical minerals for sustainable growth.
Mr. Zane Dangor, the G20 Sherpa of South Africa, addressed the United Nations General Assembly, highlighting South Africa’s historical G20 Presidency. He referenced Nelson Mandela, emphasizing the importance of combating poverty and injustice, which aligns with the theme: “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.” South Africa feels a profound moral duty to advance these ideals.
He reiterated that the G20 aims to support the UN’s reforms rather than operate in parallel. The forthcoming “Pact of the Future” offers an opportunity to enhance global governance by integrating its agenda with the G20. Dangor acknowledged the role of the General Assembly in fostering global economic governance.
Amidst global crises, interconnected issues like poverty, hunger, and climate change endanger future generations. The G20 theme aims to create a future focused on people and development. This theme incorporates an African philosophy, Ubuntu, which underscores humanity’s interconnectedness and the necessity of collaborative solutions.
South Africa’s G20 priorities are focused on four main areas: strengthening disaster resilience, ensuring debt sustainability for low-income nations, mobilizing finance for a just energy transition, and promoting sustainable growth through critical minerals. These priorities align with the G20’s original goal of promoting balanced and inclusive growth.
Three task forces have been established to facilitate this agenda: Inclusive Economic Growth, Food Security, and Artificial Intelligence for Sustainable Development. A broadened approach is being adopted in collaboration with the African Union to advance African development priorities within the G20 framework.
Furthermore, Dangor called for a reassessment of multilateralism as the world faces various challenges. He urged reform of UN structures to reflect modern realities, recognizing that developing countries now have a significant presence in the UN. He praised the inclusion of the African Union in the G20 as pivotal for conveying Africa’s priorities on the global stage.
As conflicts persist across regions, South Africa advocates for diplomacy, assuring peace through inclusive dialogue. He concluded by referencing Mandela’s belief in cooperative humanity, reinforcing the notion that collective action is crucial for global advancement. His remarks underscore the need for partnerships and cooperation between nations, especially within the G20 framework, to reach a more peaceful and equitable world.
South Africa’s G20 Presidency represents a crucial opportunity for addressing global challenges through solidarity, equality, and sustainability. Mr. Dangor’s address emphasizes the unity needed in tackling interconnected crises, advocating for a comprehensive approach to growth and reform in global governance. Key priorities focus on resilience, sustainability, and collaboration—strongly highlighting the importance of partnership and dialogue in fostering an equitable future.
Original Source: allafrica.com
