Delegates arrive ahead of the G20 Finance and Central Bank Deputies and Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors’ Meetings, at the Capital hotel in Zimbali, Durban
The United Kingdom was established on January 1, 1801, when Great Britain (itself a union of England, Wales and Scotland from 1707) united with Ireland by an Act of Union.
After the formation of the Irish Free State in 1922, the UK became the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
King Charles III is the current monarch, succeeding Queen Elizabeth II on September 8, 2022.
The monarch is the ceremonial head of state, undertakes official, representational, and diplomatic duties, and performs constitutional functions like appointing the Prime Minister, bestowing honors, and embodying national unity.
Labour’s Keir Starmer has served as Prime Minister since July 5, 2024. The Prime Minister is the true head of government, responsible for setting national policy, leading the Cabinet, representing the UK internationally, and overseeing lawmaking, defence, and economic strategy.
The UK and G20:
The UK is a founding member of the G20 and holds major influence as the world's sixth-largest economy.
The UK hosted the G20 London Summit in 2009, which played a crucial role in tackling the global financial crisis.
In recent G20 summits, including the upcoming 2025 Johannesburg Summit, the UK’s agenda includes promoting global financial stability, leading initiatives on responsible AI, climate financing, migration and supporting democratic values worldwide.
Prime Minister Keir Starmer is expected to represent the United Kingdom at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg, in November 2025.
UK economy:
- 2024 GDP: $3,643.83-billion (World Bank, Trading Economics)
- GDP share of world economy: 3.43%
- 2025 GDP Forecast: $3,680.00-billion
- GDP per capita: $47,265
- Major economic sectors: Services, manufacturing, construction, agriculture
Fun Facts About the United Kingdom
- Most Nobel Laureates in Literature: No country has won more Nobel Prizes for Literature than the UK, highlighting its global cultural influence.
- London’s tube system is the oldest in the world: Opened in 1863, the London Underground was the first subway system on Earth, still serving millions daily.
- UK is made up of four nations: The United Kingdom consists of England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, each with its own distinct culture and legal systems.
- Monarch’s official residence: Located in London, Buckingham Palace has been the official residence of the monarch since 1837, and is a focal point for national celebrations and royal events.
- By Nkateko Muloiwa