Mr. Zane Dangor, the G20 Sherpa from South Africa, addressed the U.N. General Assembly, outlining priorities for South Africa’s G20 Presidency. He emphasized themes of solidarity, equality, and sustainability, stressing the need for global cooperation in addressing poverty and inequality. Key priorities include disaster resilience, debt sustainability, just energy transitions, and inclusive growth, all aimed at strengthening global governance and reforming international frameworks. The address underscored the interconnectedness of nations and the importance of collaborative solutions to global challenges.
Mr. Zane Dangor, the G20 Sherpa and Director-General of South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation, addressed the United Nations General Assembly, expressing gratitude for the chance to outline South Africa’s G20 Presidency priorities, a first for Africa. He highlighted the ongoing fight against poverty and inequality, echoing the sentiments of former President Nelson Mandela, and underscored the theme of South Africa’s presidency: “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.”
In his speech, Mr. Dangor noted that South Africa’s leadership stems from the principles established in General Assembly resolution 71/327, promoting engagement between U.N. bodies and policy-making groups like the G20. He emphasized the importance of the United Nations as the preeminent global platform for deliberations in economic governance, asserting that G20 efforts should complement U.N. reforms rather than act in parallel.
Mr. Dangor stated that the G20 aims to support the Pact of the Future, which seeks to revitalize global governance. He called for integrated actions from the G20 aligned with this Pact, appreciating the President of the General Assembly’s commitment to furthering its implementation. He pointed out global challenges posed by poverty, inequality, and geopolitical tensions, and stressed the urgency to meet Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.
He reiterated South Africa’s commitment to shape a people-centered dialogue through solidarity and equality in addressing global issues. The principle of sustainability was described as essential in ensuring present needs do not compromise future generations. Central to the theme is Ubuntu, an African philosophy encapsulating interconnectedness and cooperative problem-solving among nations.
Aligned with the G20’s original mandate, South Africa’s priorities include strengthening disaster resilience, ensuring debt sustainability for low-income countries, mobilizing finance for just energy transitions, and harnessing critical minerals for sustainable development. The introduction of three task forces further supports these areas, focusing on inclusive growth, food security, and innovation in artificial intelligence and data governance.
The South African Presidency is dedicated to amplifying existing cooperative efforts while advancing initiatives such as an expanded Compact with Africa. This aims to address historical economic disparities influenced by tumultuous geopolitical dynamics. Mr. Dangor noted the significance of engaging in dialogues surrounding global taxes, climate change, and overall inclusivity in the development discourse.
He also reflected on the United Nations’ upcoming 80th anniversary and its evolving role in a multi-polar world. Emphasizing the need for reform within the U.N. to enhance representation, he advocated for accountability and respect for international norms. By including the African Union in the G20, he argued that Africa’s development priorities could achieve a more substantial voice in global conversations.
Furthermore, Mr. Dangor urged for enhanced collaboration between the G20 and U.N. to achieve coherence in addressing critical global challenges. Utilizing diplomatic solutions to address breaches of global security was acknowledged as the path forward. He concluded on a strong note, referencing Nelson Mandela’s enduring wisdom on humanity’s collective responsibility toward building a better world.
Mr. Dangor thanked the assembly and emphasized a continuous dialogue moving forward, which is essential for securing a cohesive international strategy.
Mr. Zane Dangor’s address at the United Nations General Assembly highlighted South Africa’s historic G20 Presidency and outlined strategic priorities focused on solidarity, equality, and sustainability. Emphasizing the need for global cooperation, he reaffirmed the importance of the United Nations as a pivotal platform for policy-making. South Africa’s approach aims to strengthen disaster resilience, ensure debt sustainability, facilitate finance for energy transitions, and promote interconnected growth while advocating for necessary reforms. This commitment to collaborative solutions is essential for addressing pressing global challenges and achieving sustainable development.
Original Source: allafrica.com
