South Africa is poised to host a landmark G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg this November, with Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola confirming preparations are "on track" despite complex global challenges. The announcement comes as the country completes 51 preparatory meetings since December 2023, addressing pressing issues from climate resilience to equitable energy transitions.
Lamola emphasized South Africa\u2019s four-pillar agenda: strengthening disaster response systems, ensuring debt relief for low-income nations, financing sustainable energy transitions, and leveraging critical minerals for inclusive growth. \u201cOur presidency remains grounded in multilateral solutions,\u201d he stated, acknowledging differing viewpoints among members while highlighting \u201coverwhelming support\u201d for these priorities.
Addressing reports of selective U.S. participation in preliminary meetings, Lamola maintained diplomatic neutrality: \u201cEvery nation retains sovereign discretion in engagement. What matters is our collective commitment to rules-based cooperation.\u201d
The minister particularly welcomed recent China-U.S. trade discussions, calling dialogue between the world\u2019s two largest economies \u201cessential for global stability.\u201d His remarks underscore South Africa\u2019s balancing act in fostering collaboration amid geopolitical tensions.
With 85% of the global GDP represented at the summit, analysts view Johannesburg\u2019s hosting as a test case for Global South leadership in reshaping economic governance. The outcomes could significantly impact developing nations\u2019 access to climate financing and technology transfers.
