Johannesburg – President Cyril Ramaphosa has officially closed the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Nasrec, Johannesburg.
The historic two-day summit, Africa’s first, united world leaders to tackle socio-economic issues, drive global economic growth, and advance financial inclusion.
Ramaphosa called the summit a turning point, declaring that its goal was to put Africa’s growth and development at the core of the G20 agenda.
"The greatest opportunity for prosperity in the 21st century lies in Africa. Harnessing that opportunity will require a strong partnership between Africa and the G20, and indeed between Africa and the rest of the world," he said.
Ramaphosa underscored that the summit came as the world clamoured for swift action on the urgent problems of poverty, inequality, and climate change.
He warned that surging debt in developing economies stands as a major stumbling block to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. (SDGs).
"The G20 has pledged to extend support to low‑ and middle‑income countries as they confront debt vulnerabilities. Together, we must create a virtuous cycle of reduced debt, higher public investment and more rapid and inclusive economic growth," said Ramaphosa.
As the ceremony closed, President Ramaphosa declared that the foundation of solidarity had been set, and it was time to raise the walls of justice and the roof of prosperity.
“Let us move forward together, demonstrating to the world that we have the capacity to confront and overcome the world’s challenges,” he said.