Johannesburg: The world is here, the African continent is here, [global] institutions are here. Multilateralism has been affirmed. The multi-polar world is in real action.” These were the words of Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, following the announcement that the G20 Leaders’ Summit has adopted a declaration.

According to South African Government News Agency, the Minister spoke to the media on the sidelines of the first day of the two-day Leaders’ Summit on Saturday. The historical summit, held on the African continent for the first time, is taking place at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg. Lamola emphasized the summit as a platform reinforcing multilateralism, which he regards as beneficial since the end of the Second World War. The venue’s choice is symbolic of South Africa’s aim to foster mutual cooperation worldwide.

Lamola highlighted the significance of discussing issues bridging the Global South and Global North. He pointed out the symbolism of hosting the summit in Soweto, a former black township, in proximity to Joburg North, a previously white-only area. This choice signifies the need for collaboration between the Global North and South to benefit humanity.

On the subject of the declaration, particularly regarding digital transformation and artificial intelligence, the Minister described it as a crucial step for Africa. Lamola noted that few African content creators receive resources from platforms like TikTok and Apple. The G20 declaration addresses the need for Africa to not only consume artificial intelligence but also contribute to innovation, research, and data centers. This focus is particularly important for the continent’s youth and has the potential to transform Africa’s participation in the global economy.

Lamola expressed the South African government’s satisfaction with the progressive declaration, which he believes will redefine the Global South’s role in the global economy. This sentiment follows confirmation from Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya that G20 leaders have reached a consensus to adopt the summit declaration.

In his opening address at the summit, President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized that the first-ever G20 Leaders’ Summit on African soil should reflect the aspirations of both the continent and the global community.