G20: Final declaration published with strong focus on development issues in Africa

The final declaration of G20 leaders’ meeting has been published with a strong focus on development issues in Africa, including promoting economic growth and trade.

In a break from tradition, leaders on Saturday adopted the final declaration right at the onset of the first of two days of meetings in Johannesburg, with the United States (US) absent from the talks.

The 30-page declaration congratulates South Africa for initiating a review of the work being done by the G20 to date and embraces Africa’s voice within the Group of 20.

After adopting the declaration upfront, leaders turned their attention to delivering their country statements.

European leaders, meanwhile, are reportedly seized on the sidelines of the summit, discussing developments emanating from a US peace plan for Ukraine.

Despite the broad consensus on the final G20 declaration, Argentina indicated it was not in agreement.

The declarationhas reaffirmed the call for more equitable financing for Africa and the need to accelerate the response to climate change on the continent.

Despite a threat from the US for South Africa not to adopt a declaration in its absence, Presidency spokesperson Vincent Magwenya said its arguments did not hold water.

“Multilateralism is the biggest winner today. Global cooperation is the biggest winner today. Obviously, for South Africa, it’s an enormous success that we’ve managed to secure agreement from all countries barring the US.”

Despite the US snubbing South Africa’s G20, the declaration states that member countries remain committed to working with the new hosts in 2026 and the United Kingdom (UK) in 2027.