1. President Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the European Council, Mr António Costa, and President of the European Commission, Dr Ursula von der Leyen met on the margins of the G20 Summit on 20 November 2025.
    
2. This meeting follows a series of engagements between the leaders, including at the multilateral fora such as the UNGA80 in New York, the EU’s Global Gateway Forum in Brussels and the recent ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur.  
    
3. The Leaders reviewed progress on the key political and economic outcomes agreed to at the 8th South Africa – EU Summit held in March 2025, in Cape Town.
    
4. ⁠In the context of South Africa’s G20 Presidency and ahead of the 7^th AU-EU Summit on 24-25 November in Luanda, Angola, this meeting took place against the backdrop of growing challenges to multilateralism and the ongoing conflict in Sudan. Leaders reiterated their March commitment to a just, comprehensive, and lasting peace in Ukraine and in the occupied Palestinian Territories. They also recalled the importance of multilateralism, the centrality of the United Nations Charter and the support for a renewed global financing framework for sustainable development, following the 4^th International Conference on Financing for Development in Seville from 30 June to 3 July 2025 and Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC (COP30) from 6 to 21 November in Belém, Brazil.  
    
5. The Leaders welcomed the signature of the EU-South Africa Clean Trade and Investment Partnership (CTIP), which will create new trade and investment opportunities, while supporting decarbonisation objectives through a tailored, flexible, and targeted approach taking into account the priorities of South Africa and the EU. In addition to facilitating trade and investment in clean supply chains, this partnership will also serve as a forum for regulatory cooperation between the EU and South Africa in areas of mutual interest.
    
6. The Leaders also welcomed the signature of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a Strategic Partnership on Sustainable Minerals and Metals Value Chains, which will promote value addition and beneficiation of critical minerals close to the source of extraction and will enhance economic and industrial integration between South Africa and the EU. 
    
7. Delivering on the commitment taken up at the EU-South Africa Summit earlier this year, the two sides launched the South Africa - EU Energy Dialogue in September 2025 and agreed to raise it to Ministerial level in 2026. The Dialogue provides a platform to deepen collaboration in areas such as transmission, clean energy technologies and additional just transition initiatives. Both sides also reiterated the commitment to work together towards future export of electro Sustainable Aviation Fuel (e-SAF) to the EU market in line with the commitment made during the SA-EU Summit in March 2025. 
    
8. Leaders reiterated their commitment to facilitate bilateral trade in animals, plants and their products. In particular, South Africa reaffirmed its commitment to enable trade of poultry, including through a conclusive discussion on regionalisation, as well as further assess and process EU market access applications based on the information to be provided by exporting countries as a matter of priority. The EU signaled readiness to advance listing South Africa as eligible to export shelf-stable composite products to the EU market. South Africa has shared progress report on various EU market access requests. Both sides committed to identify tangible deliverables to demonstrate progress in fulfilling their respective commitments by the next Trade and Investment Dialogue.
    
9. The two sides commended the agreement to facilitate bilateral cumulation of batteries through a temporary derogation from the Rules of Origin under the provisions of the EU – SADC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) to be submitted by South Africa. This derogation would aim at promoting battery manufacturing in the EU and South Africa and facilitating South Africa to employ batteries made in the EU and South Africa to export electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles to the EU market under the EU-SADC EPA. 
    
10. ⁠The EU announced five projects as part of the implementation of the Team Europe Global Gateway Investment Package for South Africa of nearly EUR 12 billion, unveiled at the Global Gateway Forum in Brussels on 9 October 2025. These projects included  three blended finance and technical assistance facilities on green hydrogen, minerals and metals in the e-batteries value chain; a European Investment Bank (EIB) loan to Transnet to support the decarbonisation of South Africa’s transport sector; as well as support from EIB under the EU-supported Human Development Accelerator initiative to boost South Africa’s vaccine’s manufacturing capacities. The two sides acknowledged the role of the implementing partners, including the Development Bank of Southern Africa, the Industrial Development Cooperation, Transnet and Biovac, as well as the EIB, the German Development Bank (KfW) and the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ). 
     
11. The Leaders acknowledged the ongoing negotiations on the Horizontal Aviation Agreement, and the commitment by both sides to strengthen cooperation on maritime security in the context of the Djibouti Code of Conduct. 
     
12. The two sides noted the recent high-level discussions and technical exchanges dedicated to strengthening cooperation on environment, specifically on issues related the water sector.
     
13. The Leaders took note of ongoing efforts to advance cooperation on peace, security and defence, notably by establishing a dedicated Dialogue as set out in the Summit Declaration of March. It will strengthen cooperation, including on countering terrorism, cybersecurity, maritime security and mediation. They further concurred that tackling the underlying drivers of conflict remains essential for achieving durable peace, security and stability.
     
14. The meeting took place in the same spirit of partnership and cooperation that characterised the Summit in Cape Town. Both sides undertook to redouble efforts to address the outstanding issues to foster shared prosperity based on the principles of equality and mutual benefit. 
     
15. The EU looked forward to hosting the 9^th South Africa – EU Summit in Brussels on a mutually suitable date to be agreed between the parties.
     

His Excellency, the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Mr Paul Mashatile will on Friday, 21 November 2025, host his Excellency, the President of France, Mr Emmanuel Macron, to commemorate the French citizens who played a role in the fight against apartheid in South Africa.

The French President will be in the country to join other leaders who will be attending the Group of Twenty (G20) Leaders Summit scheduled for 22-23 November, under the theme - " Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability ".

South Africa and France enjoy cordial bilateral, political and economic relations in areas such as Trade and Industry, Defence, Science and Technology, Energy, Education, Transport, Arts and Culture, among others.
 
The ceremony follows South Africa’s recent successful visit to France, which further strengthened the historic warm relations between the two countries by expanding on existing cooperation projects through mobilising investments, as well as identifying new areas of cooperation with specific focus on trade and investment.

Members of the media are invited to cover the Wreath-Laying Ceremony as follows:
Date: Friday, 21 November 2025
Time: 18:15 (Media to arrive at 17:30)
Venue: Freedom Park Heritage Site & Museum, Corner Koch and 7th Avenue, Salvokop, Pretoria 

Members of the media who wish to cover the Wreath-Laying ceremony should RSVP to Ms Tshiamo Selomo (The Presidency) on 066 118 1505 and Mr Tristan Roussignol Rètif (Embassy of France) on 082 610 2953.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to Deputy President Mashatile on 066 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

His Excellency, the Deputy President of the Republic of South Africa, Paul Mashatile, met with VISA's Regional President for Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, Mr. Tareq Muhmood, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Government Affairs, Mr. Bobby Thomson, and their delegation on the sidelines of the B20 Summit at the OR Tambo House in Pretoria.  

Deputy President Paul Mashatile expressed his gratitude to VISA's executives for their ongoing support and commitment to improving local infrastructure and the digital environment, significantly bolstering economic development and sustainability. 

The meeting reaffirms Visa's long-term commitment to South Africa, anchored by a R1 billion investment over the next three years. A key component of this investment is the establishment of South Africa's first domestic Visa data centre, the first of its kind in Africa. 

"As a government, we remain receptive to new avenues or concepts for investment, and we are committed to enhancing partnerships to augment investment in our beautiful nation. Your commitment to our country's infrastructure development has not gone unnoticed," said Deputy President Mashatile. 

Deputy President Mashatile emphasised the importance of VISA's partnership and investment in South Africa, as it will help localise transaction processing, improve payment service reliability, support innovations such as digital wallets, and, most importantly, empower SMEs, enhance township economies, and promote youth development through training and mentorship. 

The Deputy President concluded the meeting by extending an invitation to VISA Executives to attend the 2026 South Africa Investment Conference. “South Africa will host the Investment Conference in March 2026, and we would like to encourage you to participate in this event as we explore further areas of investment and partnership that will benefit you as a company as well as South Africa and its people, especially the youth,” said Deputy President Mashatile. 

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President, on 066 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

Programme Director,
B20 Co-Chairs, Ms Nonkululeko Nyembezi and Mr Mxolisi Mgojo,
B20 South Africa Sherpa, Mr Cas Coovadia,
Minister of Trade, Industry and Competition, Mr Parks Tau,
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola,
AU and EU Commissioners,
Members of the Local Business Advisory Council,
Members of the International Business Advocacy Caucus,
Ambassadors and High Commissioners,
B20 Sherpas,
Delegates,
Distinguished guests,
Friends,

It is a great honour to address this gathering of business people from across the globe who, by their presence here, have affirmed their commitment to a better Africa and a better world.

The G20 is meeting for the first time on African soil.

From every corner of the earth, people are returning to the Cradle of Humanity – to reflect on the state of our world and to chart a way forward to a more inclusive, more prosperous and more sustainable future.

This is a moment of great significance for Africa. It is also a moment of great opportunity.

It is an opportunity for Africa to assert its place in global affairs.

To affirm its position as a leader of economic growth and social progress in the years and decades before us.

Africa has some of the fastest growing economies in the world.  

It has the youngest population.

It is endowed with abundant natural resources: with the critical minerals that will build the economy of the future, with the fertile lands that can feed the world, and with the sun and the wind that will power a revolution in energy.

The African Continental Free Trade Area provides an unprecedented opportunity to harness these resources for the good of the people of the continent.

It promises a new area of trade and investment across the borders that have for so long held Africa back.

The African Continental Free Trade Area promises greater alignment of rules, regulations and standards.

It promises the seamless movement of goods and provision of services across a market of 1.4 billion people.

As the work done by the B20 has made clear, Africa has the potential to be the next frontier of global production, commerce and innovation.

We call on the global community to embrace Africa’s rise.

A more prosperous Africa is a more prosperous world.

An Africa that is at peace, that is stable, that is well governed and that has the means to meet the needs of its people, makes for a better world.

If the G20 is to realise its mission of fostering a more stable and prosperous world, then Africa’s growth and development must be a priority.

This calls for investment in infrastructure and industry. It calls for investment in people and technology. It calls for a massive increase in finance for climate action and a just transition for African economies.

Africa’s growth and development calls for more deliberate and more decisive action towards debt sustainability on the African continent.

Many African countries are unable to invest in their people, in infrastructure or in productive activity because of the cost of servicing their debt.

Removing this burden will unleash the potential of many African economies and the contribution that they can make to global growth.

This task has been bolstered in recent days by the release of the report of the Africa Expert Panel chaired by former South African Finance Minister Trevor Manuel.

The panel’s report highlights the high cost of capital faced by African countries, which are higher than in other regions with similar fundamentals.  

It recommends measures to mobilise significantly more concessional funding from multilateral development banks and African trade and finance institutions.

The report says we need to address biased risk perceptions of Africa by mandating greater transparency and accountability from credit rating agencies.

Taken together, the detailed recommendations of the expert panel could create the conditions for an investment boom in Africa.

Through its deliberations over the past year, the B20 has done much to reinforce the value of Africa’s rise, and it has outlined in detail the actions that need to be taken and the conditions that need to be met to realise Africa’s rise.

The B20 has done much to position business as a force for progress.

The B20 could not have been clearer: the global business community is prepared, willing and able to drive inclusive, sustainable and resilient growth.

The global business community has made itself a reliable partner, keen to work with governments, with multilateral bodies, with social partners and with communities in pursuit of the common good.

The B20 has made it clear that growth must be inclusive.

Those who have been marginalised – women, youth, persons with disabilities, the unemployed – must become active and beneficial participants in the global economy.

This is a matter of social and economic justice. But it is so much more.

It is an opportunity to harness the capabilities, talents and effort of billions of people to unleash the productive potential of humanity.

This calls for an approach that invests in people. It must start in the earliest years of life, establishing through quality foundational education a platform for learning that produces the skills that the economy of tomorrow will need.

It calls for accessible, quality health care, for affordable social security and focused poverty alleviation measures.

It calls for support for micro, small and medium enterprises, for entrepreneurs and for informal businesses.

Workers need to be skilled and re-skilled as methods of production change, as new industries emerge, as old industries decline and as technology advances at an ever-increasing rate.

The B20 has said that growth must be sustainable.

For the last two centuries, the extraordinary growth of the global economy has been achieved at the expense of the very resources on which our species relies for survival.

We now know that unless we change course, urgently and resolutely, the conditions of life on this planet will become intolerable.

The move to a low carbon economy cannot be delayed. Indeed, it must be accelerated.

As we undertake this transition, we must be sure not to further deepen inequality between and within countries.

We cannot disadvantage those countries that bear the least responsibility for climate change, yet are today most vulnerable to its effects.

We therefore need a massive increase in financial support for just and inclusive transitions in developing economies. We must share knowledge, expertise and technology.

At the same time, we must be wary of unilateral trade measures that seek to promote cleaner energy, but that further restrict fair market access for economies that are still developing.

We need to pursue fair, transparent and multilateral trade arrangements that do not punish countries for a climate crisis that they did not make.

From the experience of recent years, we are clear that growth must be resilient.

We have seen the huge disruptions to production and trade that can be caused by global pandemics, war and conflict, and geopolitical turbulence.

At such times, we appreciate the value of multilateral institutions and a rules-based world order.  

We appreciate the importance of diverse and resilient supply chains, regulatory coherence and predictable trade relations.

As we work to reinforce the resilience of our economies and the resilience of the global economy, we must direct greater effort towards reducing inequality.

A more equal world, in which political and economic power is more fairly distributed, in which all people have an equal voice and an equal stake, such a world is more stable and more resilient.

The G20 Global Inequality Report produced by Nobel Laureate Joseph Stiglitz and his committee of independent experts provides valuable guidance on the actions we can take towards such a world.

The recommendations contained in the committee’s report reinforce many of the priorities and actions that have been put forward at this B20 Summit and indeed throughout the year’s B20 engagements.

South Africa embarked on its G20 Presidency determined to advance the principles of Equality, Solidarity and Sustainability.

Over the course of the past year, most of the countries of the G20 have rallied in support of these principles, understanding that they are fundamental to our shared future.

We commend, applaud and thank the B20 for having imbued these principles with meaning and relevance.

I congratulate the B20 team and everyone from across the globe who participated in this worthy effort, and who are now determined to be part of the important work that lies ahead in building a better future for all.

I thank you.

Programme Director, Minister Khumbudzo Ntshavheni;
Former Deputy President of South Africa, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka;
Minister of Human Rights of the Federative Republic of Brazil, Ms Macaé Evaristo;
Ministers, Deputy Ministers and Members of Parliament;
Delegates from the G20 member states;
Representatives of international organisations;
Co-Convenors of the Social Summit and Sherpas of the G20;
Members of the diplomatic corps;
Heads of delegation;
Representatives of religious and traditional leadership;
Delegates;
Guests;
Friends; 
 
Good morning. 
 
Sanibonani. Dumelang. Avuxeni. Goeie môre. Molweni. Ndi Matsheloni. Lotjhani. 
 
I greet you all in some of South Africa’s beautiful languages. 
 
One of these greetings, Sanibonani, is in the Zulu language. It literally means, ‘we see each other’. 
 
We are acknowledging the personhood, value and dignity of the one we are greeting. We are affirming the cherished principle of Ubuntu: I am because we are. 
 
This is the spirit in which this G20 Social Summit is being held.
 
Seventy years ago, in 1955, two seminal events took place that would be pivotal in defining human relations in our country and across the world. 
 
The first was the Asian-African Conference in Indonesia, also known as the Bandung Conference. 
 
At the time, a wave of independence was reshaping Africa and Asia. This conference has been described as the moment the Global South began to speak for itself.
 
The delegates to the Bandung Conference made a commitment to advancing peace and equality, to solidarity, and to economic and political cooperation rooted in mutual respect. 
 
The second seminal event of 1955 was the Conference of the People here in Johannesburg, in a place called Kliptown. 
 
It was the height of apartheid rule. Repression was rife. 
 
It was at the Congress of the People that South Africans of all races, all faiths and all creeds gathered to adopt the Freedom Charter, which would be the forerunner to South Africa’s democratic constitution. 
 
The Freedom Charter boldly declares that ‘There shall be Peace and Friendship’, and that this shall be secured by upholding the equal rights, opportunities and status of all. 
 
History too will record this year as a milestone for global cooperation. 
 
We affirm the historic nature not only of the first summit of the G20 to take place on African soil, but also of this Social Summit, a gathering of peoples from across the world.
 
We meet at a time of great uncertainty. 
 
Political polarisation, global poverty, conflict and war, and the growing impact of climate change are threatening global development.
 
Inequality in wealth distribution, imbalances in international development financing, and disparities in access to financial resources are holding back our ability to meet the aspirations of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 
 
As a continent, we are in tandem striving to realise the aspirations of the African Union’s Agenda 2063: The Africa we Want. 
 
This is the second G20 Social Summit to take place since the concept was inaugurated by the Brazilian Presidency last year.
 
The breadth of representation and the depth of engagement is most impressive. 
 
It is here, in this room, where we lay the groundwork for global action on the G20 priorities. 
 
We know that global action will be credible because it is informed by the voices of the people. 
 
South Africa’s G20 Presidency has been premised on ensuring the interests of developing economy countries are elevated on the G20 agenda. 
 
We have sought to address poverty, inequality and underdevelopment. 
 
We have worked to strengthen and reform the international financial architecture, to democratise the systems of global governance, and to promote the right of all nations to development, equality and dignity. 
 
We have used our G20 Presidency to reiterate the call for the world’s leading economies to invest in sustainable development and in the conservation of the planet for future generations. 
 
But for the decisions taken at the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit to stand tall, to grow, to have credibility and legitimacy, they have to be nourished by strong roots. 
 
These roots are our civil society and community organisations, women’s organisations, youth formations, academia and think-tanks, business, labour and other grassroots formations. 
 
We are fortunate to have secured the full and meaningful participation of all the formations in this Summit, including Women20, Youth20, Business20, Civil20, Labour20, Parliament20, Media20 and others. 
 
There has been broad and far-reaching consultation over the last year. 
 
There have been dialogues on issues as diverse as digital inclusion, equitable transformation and climate justice.
 
There have been discussions on just and sustainable finance, on media freedom, on strengthening democracy, and the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. 
 
Delegates to this Summit have recognised the need to build resilience and inclusive value chains to protect vulnerable countries from increased volatility in global trade. 
 
The Social Summit has reaffirmed the importance of an inclusive transition to a low-carbon, climate resilient economy that is guided by those most affected.
 
Delegates are calling on the G20 Leaders’ Summit to demonstrate leadership in scaling up global water investment for the benefit of all. 
 
The G20 Social Summit has sought to ensure that global leadership protects society’s most vulnerable. 
 
Today is World Children’s Day, when we commemorate the adoption of the Convention on the Rights of the Child. 
 
This was the first global UN convention ratified by the newly democratic South Africa. 
 
This Social Summit has called for more resources to be devoted to eliminating child poverty and hunger and to ensure that children are protected. 
 
The progressive deliberations at this Social Summit have culminated in calls for greater political commitment to advancing young people’s access to opportunities.
 
It has called for the health and wellbeing of women and children to be prioritised and for greater representation of women in all facets of society. 
 
As South Africa, we have lent our support to the Global Leaders Network for Women’s, Children’s and Adolescents’ Health. 
 
As the Global Leaders Network, we are deeply concerned by the effects of the withdrawal of overseas development assistance on initiatives supporting health service delivery and health systems.
 
We are committed to work together to mobilise global health financing so that the most vulnerable are not further deprived of their rights to care. 
 
It was the great African revolutionary Thomas Sankara who said there is no true social revolution without the liberation of women. 
 
He said: “May my eyes never see, and my feet never take me to a society where half the people are held in silence.” 
 
We cannot build societies rooted in equality unless those societies uphold the rights of women and girls.
 
Sustainable societies are those that recognise, value and compensate the labour and economic contribution of women.
 
No society can thrive for as long as gender-based violence and femicide continues and the agency of women is denied. 
 
The violence perpetrated by men against women erodes the social fabric of nations. 
 
It imposes a heavy burden that constrains development and weakens inclusive growth. 
 
Men and boys are critical partners in transforming harmful norms and advancing gender justice.
 
They must be actively involved in challenging inherited attitudes, power imbalances and social structures that normalise violence and silence survivors. 
 
Here in South Africa, we have declared gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) a national crisis. 
 
We have agreed, among all social partners, that we need to take extraordinary and concerted action – using every means at our disposal – to end this crisis. 
 
The collective perspectives that have been expressed at this Summit on all these issues and more will enable governments and decision-makers to better understand people’s practical, lived experiences. 
 
They will be able to better understand what works and what doesn’t – and to better understand what must change. 
 
Collectively, the members of the G20 represent 85 percent of global GDP, 75 percent of global trade and two-thirds of the global population. 
 
For the G20 to fully live up to its mission of promoting international financial stability and deepening global economic cooperation there should be no unwritten rules about those who feast and those who must settle for scraps. 
 
It cannot be that a country’s geographical location or income or army determines who has a voice and who is spoken down to. 
 
In choosing the theme for our G20 Presidency, South Africa sought to advance a vision of meaningful, credible global cooperation. 
 
It is our expectation that this Social Summit will be remembered for being far more than a marketplace of ideas. 
 
Just as the Bandung Conference elevated the voice of the Global South and just as the Conference of the People harnessed global solidarity against apartheid, this year’s G20 Social Summit must be remembered for having given practical meaning to global solidarity. 
 
Thank you to all who have been part of making this Summit a success. 
 
We commend the delegates from various civil society organisations present here for shaping the agenda and direction of the G20 Social Summit. 
 
These efforts will foster ongoing cooperation between governments and civil society in advancing sustainable global development. 
 
For millennia, our forebears were guided by the sun by day and the stars by night. 
 
They relied on nature to show them the way as they traversed the ancient trading routes of Timbuktu, as they navigated the mighty Congo River, and as they made their way across the vast expanses of the Kalahari. 
 
Today, we are counting on this Social Summit to guide the G20. 
 
We are relying on this Social Summit to be the reliable, trustworthy compass that ensures the G20 agenda takes the needs and aspirations of all the countries and all the peoples of the world into account. 
 
It is our collective wish that this Social Summit will guide us along the path of solidarity, equality and sustainability. 
 
No matter the headwinds, no matter the geopolitical shifts, no matter the challenges, we will keep our eyes fixed on the horizon of progress and shared prosperity. 
 
We will set a new course for the world, and we will create a new future for its people.
 
I thank you.

President Cyril Ramaphosa will tomorrow, Thursday, 20 November 2025, lead South Africa’s delegation at the South Africa–European Union Trilateral Leaders’ Meeting at the Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg.

The meeting forms part of the long-standing Strategic Partnership between South Africa and the European Union, founded on shared values of democracy, multilateralism, human rights, equality, peace, and security.

The trilateral engagement will advance cooperation on a broad range of priorities, including trade and investment, macro-economic policy, climate change, energy security, research and innovation, digital transformation, peacebuilding, and global governance reform.

South Africa and the European Union continue to enjoy a robust economic partnership.

The EU remains South Africa’s largest trading partner and leading source of foreign direct investment, representing 41% of total FDI into South Africa, while South Africa is the EU’s most significant trading partner in Sub-Saharan Africa.

More than 2 000 EU companies operate in South Africa, creating more than 500 000 direct and indirect jobs.

The Leaders’ Meeting will therefore provide an important platform to deepen economic ties, expand market access, and explore new opportunities for mutually beneficial growth.

The trilateral discussions will also reflect on global geopolitical developments, the reform of the international financial architecture, and the strengthening of Africa-EU cooperation in support of sustainable development, just energy transitions, and peace and stability on the continent.

This includes advancing the beneficiation of critical raw materials, the launch of the Bilateral Energy Dialogue, and EU-supported initiatives through the Team Europe Global Gateway Investment Package covering energy, connectivity infrastructure, green logistics, transport, and electricity.

The discussions will include the South African pharmaceutical value chain.

Members of the media wishing to cover the ceremony will be required to produce their G20 Summit accreditation. Media to RSVP to Ndivhuwo@presidency.gov.za this evening before 22h00.

Date: Thursday, 20 November 2025
Time: 16h00 (media to arrive at 14h30)
Venue: Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya Spokesperson to the President: media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Programme Director, Ms Bongi Kunene,
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr Ronald Lamola,
Minister of Trade, Industry and Cooperation, Mr Parks Tau,
Ms Gloria Serobe, Chairperson of the Industrial Development Corporation,
Ms Lerato Mbele, Moderator of this evening’s session
Business Leaders,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am pleased to be among you this evening. Thank you for honouring our invitation. 

Your presence here is highly valued. 

We are gathering just three days before the start of the G20 Leaders’ Summit, which is being held for the first time on African soil. 

When we assumed the G20 Presidency, we said that Africa should be central to deliberations of this strategic forum.

This is the context in which we sought this engagement, so that we can share experiences and perspectives on advancing this agenda through trade, commerce and investment. 

On Friday, I will be meeting with the African Heads of State and Government who have been invited to the G20 Leaders’ Summit. 

At this meeting, I hope to showcase the extent and scope of investment by South African companies in other African countries. 

This will be an opportunity to reaffirm the commitment of South African companies to the development of our Continent. 

We will reiterate our shared responsibility to create conducive and enabling conditions for doing business in each other’s countries.  

We acknowledge the work undertaken by the B20 to connect the business community with governments. 

Many of you gathered here have made significant contributions to the B20 deliberations during our G20 Presidency. 

As South African executives, you have a critical role to play in efforts to drive inclusive growth across our continent and across the globe. 

As the most industrialised and diverse economy on the continent, with a vibrant and engaged business community, South Africa is well positioned to enable investment and trade across Africa. 

Domestically, we are seeing the green shoots of an emerging economic recovery.

The most recent employment figures are encouraging. We are set to record another primary budget surplus and are on a path to reduce our sovereign debt.

Our country has been taken off the FATF grey list after two years of hard work. And last week, S&P upgraded our country’s sovereign credit rating. 

Electricity supply has dramatically improved and we are seeing progress in the turnaround at our ports and railways.

Despite these positive developments, headwinds remain. 

In a complex and uncertain global economic environment, we need to strengthen the capacity of our economy to compete, to produce and to trade. 

Over many years, South African companies have become innovative and adaptive, skilfully navigating enormous challenges. 

These are capabilities that we should draw on as we broaden our horizons and explore new markets for trade and investment on our continent.

The implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area will profoundly transform market access for South African goods, services and investments. 

It will help to drive regional integration and value chains across borders.

It will expand opportunities for businesses to access a wider African market of about 1.4 billion people, with a combined GDP of 3.4 trillion US dollars. 

Grounded in our shared belief that South Africa’s growth and prosperity is intrinsically intertwined with that of the African Continent – and amplified by our common heritage and shared future – we must undertake this work with greater purpose and focus. 

As Africa grows and prospers, so South Africa will grow and prosper.

We are therefore calling on South African companies to be part of setting our country and our continent on a new economic trajectory.

This is a task that we need to undertake together, as government and business, as social partners, to look at the opportunities beyond our borders – and to be part of building a better Africa. 

Let it be the start of a new chapter in South Africa’s role in the economic development of our continent.

I thank you.

Programme Directors, Deputy Minister Alvin Botes and Luanda Mpungose;
Co-Convenors of the G20 Social Summit, former Deputy President Her Excelency, Dr Phumzile Mlambo-Ngcuka and Minister in the Presidency, Honourable Khumbudzo Ntshavheni;
Premier of Gauteng, Mr Panyaza Lesufi, Premiers, MECs and Members of Legislatures here present;
The Executive Mayor of the City of Ekurhuleni, Clr Nkosindiphile Xhakaza; Mayors and Councillors here present;
The Chairperson of the NCOP, Ms Refilwe Mtshweni-Tsipane;  
UN Assistant Secretary General and Director of UNDP Regional Bureau for Africa, Ms Ahunna Eziakonwa;
Resident Coordinator of the UN in South Africa, Mr Nelson Muffuh;
His Excellency, Nardos Bekele Thomas, CEO-AUDA NEPAD, African Union;
Former AU Chairperson, Dr Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma;
African Civil Society head of Secretariat, Ambassador William Carew;
Chair of C20, Mr Thulane Tshifuta;
Ministers, Deputy Ministers and Members of Parliament; 
Excellencies, Ambassadors, Members of the Diplomatic corps;
The House of Traditional Leadership and Khoisan, led by the Deputy Chairperson, Nkosi Langa Mavuso and Traditional Leaders here present;
Interfaith Leaders here present; 
Heads of Delegation of Civil Society Organisations;
Sherpas of the 2025 G20;
Distinguished Representatives of International Organisations;
Coordinators of the Thematic Areas;
Directors General, CEOs, City Managers and Government Officials here present;
Distinguished Guests and Delegates;
Members of the Media,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good afternoon, Avuxeni, Sanibonani, Dumelang, Goeie Middag!

On behalf of His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa, the Government and the people of South Africa, I would like to begin by extending a very warm welcome to both local and international delegations to Ekurhuleni, the host city of the 2025 G20 Social Summit in South Africa. 

Our country is honoured by your presence, and I can assure you that you will enjoy South Africa’s hospitality, which is founded and shaped by the traditional African philosophy of Ubuntu. 

Ubuntu is a profound African philosophy rooted in the idea that our individual humanity is deeply connected to the humanity of others. This interconnectedness is often encapsulated in the saying, "Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu, I am because we are".  

This saying suggests that one's existence and identity are shaped by communal relationships and shared experiences. 

The core similarities between the Ubuntu philosophy and the objectives of the G20 Social Summit lie in their shared emphasis on interconnectedness, collective responsibility, solidarity, and the pursuit of social justice and equality for all people.

Recognising that “South Africa is because of Africa”, our G20 Presidency embraces an Afrocentric Leadership Model that highlights inclusivity, participation, and consultation. 

Through this model, we value inclusivity, harmony and interconnectedness, while focusing on creating a lively and energetic representation of shared aspirations of a unified Africa.

In the same spirit of communal responsibility, solidarity, engagement and consultation, South Africa initiated an inclusive National Dialogue: a people-driven, society-wide process to reflect, reset and reimagine South Africa’s future.  

Through the National Dialogue, the aim is to collectively address significant challenges facing the country, such as poverty, inequality, and social divisions. This process began with the First National Convention in August 2025, where an agenda for nationwide public dialogues was set. Ultimately, this initiative is expected to culminate in a second National Convention in 2026, at which a new social compact outlining directives for the next 30 years will be established. 

Therefore, this moment is crucial for South Africa, symbolising not only its national objectives but also the aspirations of the African continent, as outlined in Agenda 2063, the African Union's strategic framework and action plan to transform Africa into an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful continent.

The African Union's membership in the G20 is pivotal for amplifying African perspectives within the global economic and financial landscape. Our goal is to integrate African voices into global governance, striving for a more equitable and sustainable future consistent with the vision of the AU Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want.

This G20 Social Summit, therefore, provides us with an unprecedented opportunity to highlight the African Agenda and the concerns of the Global South inside the world's foremost platform for international economic cooperation.

Your Excellencies,

Despite its vast potential, Africa remains underdeveloped, with many communities still living in poverty and enduring ongoing displacement due to recurring political, economic, environmental and security challenges.

We believe it is time for Africa to advocate for lasting peace and commitment to resolving conflicts through negotiated political settlements. 

When we achieve peace and political stability, we as Africans are better positioned to secure sustainable financing, debt relief, fairer trade, and stronger representation in global economic governance, thereby advancing both the Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063.

The foundation of South Africa's G20 Presidency is its commitment to strengthening and reforming the international financial architecture, as well as deepening international economic cooperation. That forms part of the efforts to address the North-South divide, and the persistent poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment, especially in the developing world.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

What is equally crucial is that the G20 Social Summit presents South Africa with a strategic opportunity to frame global policy discussions around young people's capacities to drive inclusive economic development, inclusion and sustainability.

This presents an opportunity for the continent to take charge of its development. It is a call to reshape the global order toward justice, equity, and sustainability through the leadership and capabilities of our youth.

It is commendable that through the Y20 Communiqués, African youth have effectively delivered direct, youth-driven recommendations to G20 Leaders, influencing policy and decision-making. Their active participation in the Y20 and Social Summit positions them as vital contributors to the creation of a sustainable and inclusive global future.

Another issue we must assertively address at this summit is our collective effort to combat Gender-Based Violence. Gender-Based Violence continues to be one of Africa’s most pressing and severe social issues, eroding the dignity, security, and economic engagement of women and children throughout all communities. 

As we participate in this G20 Social Summit, it is important that we leverage this international platform to raise awareness, enhance accountability, and coordinate effective action. 

We urge the international community to address the enduring and emergent obstacles to gender equality with renewed urgency, solidarity, and innovation.

I must further indicate that the growth of the global south and the changing patterns of international cooperation illustrate significant shifts in global power dynamics impacting the current generation. Essentially, this points to a multipolar shift in global power.

The global south is increasingly asserting its voice, with institutions such as BRICS and the African Union, along with the G20 Presidency, highlighting a consensus that development should be inclusive, focused on people, and driven by youth. 

This situation presents a collective opportunity to reshape global discourse by emphasising that Africans are not merely passive recipients of aid or policy but active agents of innovation, enterprise, and governance.

This being the second G20 Social Summit, we must acknowledge its importance as a forum that will guarantee that international leaders receive direct input from the people prior to making significant decisions. Building on Brazil’s 2024 G20 Presidency, South Africa maintains the importance of the G20 Social Summit as a vehicle for advancing the voice of civil society and other non-state actors in the agenda and declaration of the G20.

I have pleasantly observed that the lead-up to this Summit has been marked by unwavering rigour, inclusion and determination from sectors of international civil society, ensuring that their voices find meaningful expression in the G20 Agenda.

Distinguished Delegates,

We all know that South Africa’s 2025 G20 Presidency is guided by the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”. 

This theme underscores the significance of social justice, inclusive development, and multilateral fairness as fundamental principles of global governance. It demonstrates a shared commitment to creating a world where cooperation transcends borders and fosters inclusive global economic growth.

Acknowledging the fact that the world we live in is currently grappling with a multitude of challenges, where there is a complex interplay between competition and threats around the globe.

As we endeavour to make international cooperation a reality, we remain inspired by the words of the world-renowned economist and Nobel Laureate Angus Deaton, who reminds us that “international cooperation is vital to keeping our globe safe, commerce flowing, and our planet habitable”.

These words emphasise the necessity of global collaboration for security, economic stability, and environmental sustainability. South Africa believes that our challenges are inherently transnational, meaning that no single nation can solve them alone.

Instead, international cooperation facilitates the pooling of resources, knowledge and efforts to address these interconnected issues effectively. We must continuously find ways to build bridges to common ground. Working together is key to building a better future with solutions that fit our unique challenges.

This year’s G20 Social Summit should be about developing solutions while serving as a platform for fostering cooperation and collaboration between state and non-state actors to advance a sustainable global partnership for development. 

Most notably, enhanced South-South cooperation should become a practical reality, reinforced by tangible North-South cooperation.

The 2025 G20 main priority is to call for global collective partnership and action, while emphasising the achievement of inclusive growth, sustainable development, technological transformation, and addressing global challenges such as climate change and socio-economic inequalities.

The other overarching priorities are as follows:

• Strengthening disaster resilience and response
• Ensuring debt sustainability for low-income countries
• Mobilising finance for a Just Energy Transition and
• Harnessing critical minerals for inclusive growth and sustainable development.

To drive this agenda, we have introduced three cross-cutting Task Forces bridging the Sherpa and Finance Tracks, namely;

• Task Force 1: on Inclusive Economic Growth, Industrialisation, Employment and Reduced Inequality
• Task Force 2: on Food Security
• Task Force 3: on Artificial Intelligence, Data Governance and Innovation for Sustainable Development.

Beyond these, South Africa is progressing with a Broadened Compact with Africa 2.0, which aims to enhance the continent's development priorities by integrating them into the global economic agenda.

The Broadened Compact with Africa 2.0 represents a key strategic initiative designed to advance economic transformation and foster technological innovation in African countries by promoting private investment and policy reform.

This initiative builds upon the foundation established during the German Presidency, emphasising a collaborative approach to Africa's economic development.

The Social Summit, therefore, focuses on five thematic areas as follows:

• Digital Inclusion and Equitable Transformation
• Trade, Resilience and Inclusive Value Chains
• Inclusive Climate Justice, a Just Transition, and Energy Democracy
• A Just and Sustainable Finance and International Financial Architecture
• Building Momentum for the achievement of the SDGs and Agenda 2063.

These thematic areas maintain their significance in facilitating strong discussions and delivering actionable recommendations from global civil society regarding the inclusive future direction of the G20 and its Social Summit.

As I have mentioned, the G20's future direction, particularly under our South African Presidency, aims to address deep-seated global inequalities and challenges, with a strong emphasis on the needs of Africa and the Global South.

It is incumbent upon leaders of the world's largest economies to rise to the occasion, to lead by example, and to chart a course towards a more sustainable, equitable, and peaceful world.

With its rich history of overcoming adversity and deep commitment to social justice, South Africa stands ready to play its part in this noble endeavour.

From our struggles against apartheid to our ongoing efforts to combat poverty, inequality and discrimination, we have shown time and again that progress is possible when we stand together, united in purpose and driven by a shared vision of a better future.

For us, collaboration and solidarity are not just aspirations; they are necessities for shaping a more inclusive, equitable and sustainable global future. 

As we engage in discussions in the upcoming days, we must remember the billions of lives at stake, the aspirations of unborn children, and our profound responsibility to leave behind a world that surpasses the one we inherited.

Let us commit ourselves to concrete actions, bold initiatives, and transformative policies that will bring about positive change and create opportunities for all. 

In conclusion, I am confident that by working together, harnessing the power of collaboration, and embracing the values of solidarity and empathy, we can overcome even the greatest of challenges and build a future that is brighter, fairer, and more sustainable for generations to come.

I am confident that this Social Summit will serve as a platform for fostering cooperation and collaboration between state and non-state actors in advancing a sustainable global partnership for development. 

It will surely incorporate the voices of civil society into the G20 decision-making process, promote global solidarity, advance inclusive development, and ultimately produce a declaration that accurately reflects the aspirations and realities of citizens' lives.

We wish to express sincere appreciation to all the engagement groups and social partners who have invested their time, expertise and energy in developing concrete proposals and declarations in the lead-up to the G20 Social Summit. 

These collective efforts will not only strengthen the Social Summit Declaration, which you will formally present to President Ramaphosa at the closing session of this Summit on the 20th of November 2025, but will also meaningfully inform and shape the G20 Leaders’ Summit Declaration. They will help to embed social justice, inclusion and sustainable development at the heart of the G20 agenda.

We call on all actors to maintain their engagement beyond the formal adoption of the G20 Declarations by remaining actively involved in tracking and assessing the implementation of commitments. In doing so, you will help to drive timely adjustments and ensure that G20 decisions lead to tangible, measurable progress in people’s lives.

Once again, welcome to South Africa, the land of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. I wish you fruitful deliberations and contributions to the outcome document of the 2025 G20 Summit.

I thank you, Ha khensa, Inkomu!

Chairperson of the Africa Expert Panel, Mr Trevor Manuel,
All members of the Panel present today,
Ladies and gentlemen,
 
Good afternoon.
 
The release of the Report of the Africa Expert Panel today marks a key milestone in South Africa’s G20 Presidency, which has sought to advance solutions for the issues that matter most to the African continent.
 
Later this week, we will host the first G20 Leaders’ Summit to be convened in Africa. 
 
This Summit takes place as the world grapples with complex and urgent challenges. The solutions to many of these challenges can be found on our continent.
 
The Panel’s Report reminds us that the greatest opportunity for global prosperity in the 21st century lies in Africa. 
 
We have a youthful and growing population, dynamic and innovative societies, and a wealth of natural resources. This includes the critical minerals needed to power new technologies around the world.
 
To harness this unique opportunity, we support the Panel’s call for a new partnership among African countries, between Africa and the G20, and between Africa and the world.
 
This partnership must focus on mobilising the financing that Africa needs to make productive investments in its infrastructure and its people.
 
If we do not address the debt burden facing many African countries, we risk a lost decade for development in Africa and other regions of the world.
 
That is why South Africa has made debt sustainability a high-level priority of our G20 Presidency.
 
The Ministerial Declaration on Debt agreed by G20 member countries last month acknowledges the importance of the debt and development challenge and provides a basis for further concrete action to be taken.
 
The Report of the Africa Expert Panel puts forward clear and specific proposals that build on the commitments outlined in the declaration.
 
The Panel’s Report highlights the high cost of capital faced by African countries, which are higher than in other regions with similar fundamentals. 
 
This raises the cost of borrowing and limits equity investment in Africa.
 
To reduce the cost of capital, we need to mobilise significantly more concessional funding from multilateral development banks and African trade and finance institutions.
 
We need to address biased risk perceptions of Africa by mandating greater transparency and accountability from credit rating agencies.
 
As an independent group of experts, the Africa Expert Panel has placed on the table detailed recommendations supported by evidence that the G20 should consider. 
 
Together, the actions they propose can create an investment boom in Africa.
 
South Africa will take these proposals forward not only in the G20 but in other international fora, working closely with the African Union and other partners.
 
This Report adds significant impetus to our collective effort to ensure that Africa mobilises the resources that it needs to develop and to grow.
 
I thank you.

Programme Director, Ms Tumi Makgabo;
Former President Kgalema Motlanthe;
Premier of Limpopo, Dr Phophi Ramathuba;
Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation, Mr David Mahlobo;
Executive Mayor of the Mogalakwena Local Municipality, Cllr Ngoako Thulane Taueatsoala;
Founder and Executive Co-Chair of Ivanhoe Mines, Mr Robert Friedland;
President and Chief Executive of Ivanhoe Mines, Ms Marna Cloete;
Executive Chairperson and head of the Ivanplats Board, Dr Patricia Makhesha;
Traditional and religious leaders present;
Representatives of organised labour;
Members of the Mokopane community;
Guests;
Ladies and gentlemen. 

Good morning. Dumelang. Avuxeni. Ndi Matsheloni. Goeie môre. 

It is a pleasure to be here. 

The commencement of production at Platreef is the culmination of a long journey that began with initial exploration more than 27 years ago, to the confirmed discovery of deposits between 2001 and 2007, to the sinking of Shaft 1 nearly ten years ago.

Having finally reached the production phase is testament to decades of hard work, resilience and persistence. 

This is an important moment for the company, for the mining industry and for the country.

The inauguration of the Platreef concentrator plant at Mogalakwena is taking place as South Africa is positioning itself as a strategic partner in the global energy transition and the next wave of green industrialisation. 

Platinum Group Metals are strategic enablers in the critical minerals transition, so we see the Platreef mine as being integral to the success of our new Critical Minerals Strategy. 

We are extremely encouraged that the Platreef mine has integrated sustainability principles and practices into its operations, with respect both to energy and water management. 

We know that our country’s water resources are extremely stressed. So efforts to adopt technologies and systems to manage water, mine waste and the associated environmental impacts are to be welcomed. 

We commend Ivanplats for its efforts to revitalise local water infrastructure across the mine’s host communities in line with the company’s Social and Labour Plan. 

The Platreef mine is leading the way on energy sustainability with its 5 megawatt on-site solar farm, which earlier this year began supplying power to the mine’s operations and to supplement grid supply. 

We maintain that mining is a sunrise industry that must continue to play a critical enabling role in our nation’s development.

Even amidst strong headwinds, figures released in September by Statistics South Africa point to 1.2 percent growth in total mining production on a year on year basis. 

As the Minerals Council has noted, there has been a notable uptick in total mineral sales for 2025, reaching R614 billion between January and September. This is better than the same periods in 2023 and 2024. 

The opening of mines like Platreef gives us confidence that the mining industry will continue to grow.

Community participation in mining activity was a key theme at this year’s Mining Indaba. 

We are greatly encouraged that  since securing the mining licensing rights for Platreef in 2014, Ivanplats has worked to ensure that the host communities always form part of decision-making. 

Where there are unresolved issues, where there are problems, it is vital that we all work together – the company, communities and the relevant authorities – towards a resolution.

We understand that 20 percent of the mine’s BBBEE shareholding structure is allocated to a community trust benefiting 20 local host communities. 

I thank those host community representatives who are with us today for their patience, and for continuing to keep the channels of communication open. 

Mining is one of those sectors where reaching full production and profitability can take many years. 

It will be important that host communities continue to be informed about developments.

We understand that there is also a trust in the structure that holds a three percent interest for the benefit of non-managerial employees at Platreef. 

Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment continues to play a pivotal role in the transformation of the highly racialised economy we inherited from apartheid. 

These laws are no less significant now than they were when they were first passed. 

We have seen great progress in promoting worker ownership of the companies in which they work. 

Worker ownership schemes in the mining sector are to be welcomed, particularly with its troubled history in South Africa and on the continent. 

I congratulate Ivanplats and other miners that are prioritising worker shareholder schemes. This is an important contribution to the ongoing transformation of the mining industry. 

I am told that around 85 percent of the mine’s workforce is drawn from surrounding communities, and there is a concerted effort to prioritise local procurement and enterprise development. 

We therefore call on the community to safeguard this production facility that is today a source of employment and development. 

To Ivanplats we say, hire from this community, procure goods and services from this community, and leave a sustainable legacy for this community. 

Even as companies across the world increasingly adopt automation, mechanisation and other technologies to improve their operations, let us ensure that this does not disadvantage the communities in which these mines are located. 

Upskilling and reskilling must be a central facet of operations now and well into the future. I am therefore impressed by the hi-tech training that is underway at the Ivanplats Centre for Excellence. 

With the Platreef mine now officially having commenced production, the imperative of sustainable, ethical and patriotic corporate citizenship becomes all the greater.
    
We want mining companies to take this approach not merely for purposes of compliance, but out of a firm commitment to the communities in which the operate. 

We wish you well in your quest for Platreef to become the world’s largest PGM mine. 

In the week that we prepare to host the first G20 Leaders’ Summit on African soil, the opening of this mine stands as a proud testament to South Africa’s steady economic recovery. 

Your journey to this opening is an example of sustainability in action.

Well done to everyone involved in achieving this great milestone.

It gives us a glimpse of the bright future of South Africa’s mining industry.

I thank you.