Question NW908 to the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
25 March 2025 - NW908
Moela, Mr MS to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation
Considering the ongoing conflicts on the African continent, how will the Republic leverage its G20 Presidency to promote peacebuilding efforts? NW1007EINISTRY INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA NATIONAL ASSEMBLY QUESTION FOR WRITTEN REPLY Date of Publication: 7 March 2025 Reply date: 24 March 2025 PQ 908. Mr M S Moela (ANC) to ask the Minister of International Relations and Cooperation: Considering the ongoing conflicts on the African continent, how will the Republic leverage its G20 Presidency to promote peacebuilding efforts? NW1007E REPLY South Africa recognises the magnitude of Africa’s market potential and the importance of achieving peace and security, as well as the environment necessary for intra-Africa trade. South Africa’s Presidency and its priorities, prosperity and growth are therefore linked to those of the African Union, particularly as this is “Africa’s first Presidency of the G20”. Whilst the G20’s focus and preoccupation relate to the global economy, in so far as financial stability and predictability of markets are concerned, South Africa’s foreign policy approach is one that recognises the inter-linkages and interdependence between development, peace and security and governance issues. Development is essential to secure peace and security, and in particular, ensuring inclusive and sustainable development creates a scenario where no one is left behind. A lack of economic opportunities, jobs, or freedom, as well as inequality can sometimes create frustration and raise the possibility of violence and instability. Weak institutions and corruption also have the ability to increase the risk of conflict. The theme for South Africa's G20 Presidency is “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”, therefore the role of the Sherpa Track remains largely political in nature to achieve this objective and that of the Finance Track remain complementary to support this foreign policy approach. In implementing this theme, South Africa’s G20 Presidency will ensure that Africa’s developmental issues are highlighted.
Reply:
South Africa recognises the magnitude of Africa’s market potential and the importance of achieving peace and security, as well as the environment necessary for intra-Africa trade.
South Africa’s Presidency and its priorities, prosperity and growth are therefore linked to those of the African Union, particularly as this is “Africa’s first Presidency of the G20”.
Whilst the G20’s focus and preoccupation relate to the global economy, in so far as financial stability and predictability of markets are concerned, South Africa’s foreign policy approach is one that recognises the inter-linkages and interdependence between development, peace and security and governance issues. Development is essential to secure peace and security, and in particular, ensuring inclusive and sustainable development creates a scenario where no one is left behind. A lack of economic opportunities, jobs, or freedom, as well as inequality can sometimes create frustration and raise the possibility of violence and instability. Weak institutions and corruption also have the ability to increase the risk of conflict.
The theme for South Africa's G20 Presidency is “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability”, therefore the role of the Sherpa Track remains largely political in nature to achieve this objective and that of the Finance Track remain complementary to support this foreign policy approach. In implementing this theme, South Africa’s G20 Presidency will ensure that Africa’s developmental issues are highlighted.