Ramaphosa leads South Africa at G20 Summit in Rio

President Cyril Ramaphosa arrived in Rio de Janeiro on 16 November 2024 to lead South Africa’s participation at the G20 Leaders’ Summit, set to run from 18 to 19 November under the theme “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet.”

“We are committed to building a more inclusive and sustainable world,” Ramaphosa said ahead of the summit. “South Africa’s participation in this forum is crucial to advancing the global South’s agenda, including the fight against poverty and hunger.”

During the summit, Ramaphosa will address key issues such as global poverty reduction and the reform of international institutions. On 17 November, he will also participate in launching the “Leveraging the Potential of Renewables – The Road to Johannesburg” campaign.

Ramaphosa noted, “Our focus is on ensuring that the world’s economic systems are more equitable, responsive, and sustainable for all nations.”

The summit will also mark the handover of the G20 Presidency to South Africa on 1 December, with a focus on “Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability.”

Accompanied by Minister of International Relations Ronald Lamola and Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, Ramaphosa’s participation underscores South Africa’s strategic foreign policy objectives: advancing national interests, promoting African development, and shaping global governance.