South Africa on Tuesday received the Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) economic forum from Brazilian President Lula da Silva at the group's summit in Rio de Janeiro, marking the first time an African nation has held the position.

Promising to focus on sustainable development, inclusive economic growth, food security, and the development of artificial intelligence, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa stated, "South Africa's presidency will be the first time an African country has presided over the G20. We will use this moment to bring the development priorities of the African Continent and the Global South more firmly onto the agenda of the G20."

What You Need to Know

The G20, the main international forum comprised of 19 of the world's largest economies, representing 85% of global GDP and 75% of international trade, since 2022, has been presided over by nations of the 'global south.'

With Indonesia holding the Presidency in 2022, followed by India in 2023, Brazil in 2024, and South Africa for 2025, set to take over the position on December 1st, Brazilian President Silva noted earlier this year, "Without the developing countries, it will not be possible to open up a new cycle of global expansion that combines growth, reduction of inequalities, environmental preservation, and the expansion of freedoms. The Global South is becoming an essential part of the solution to the main crises that afflict the planet."

Reaffirming South Africa's support for Palestine at the summit, the nation's International Relations Minister, Ronald Lamola, stated, "We call for accountability for the state of Israel and the de-escalation of the ongoing conflict. South Africa stands with the people of Palestine and urges the international community to do the same."

In a joint declaration issued yesterday that largely avoided specifics, the group called for additional aid for Gaza, an end to the war in Ukraine, as well as a global pact to combat hunger.