By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The G20 Sherpa Zane Dangor says South Africa has made significant strides, with 15 working groups established to tackle key global issues.
Dangor was speaking at the second G20 Sherpa meeting, held virtually from Thursday to Friday.
Dangor expressed gratitude for the support from fellow G20 members, emphasizing that the presidency’s success hinged on their active participation.
“We want to reaffirm multilateralism with the achievement of our shared interests and addressing pressing and ever-changing global challenges,” he noted.
He stressed that as the world faces mounting crises, multilateral institutions remain essential in crafting effective solutions. “The G20 must work with the United Nations and other multilateral bodies to mitigate these challenges and to find practical solutions for us all,” he said.
The 15 working groups cover areas such as anti-corruption, development, climate change, women’s empowerment, education, and health.
Dangor also noted that South Africa had received guidance on navigating geopolitical issues, with G20 Sherpas and international relations ministers handling broader political discussions.
At the meeting in February, G20 foreign ministers threw their weight behind South Africa’s Presidency priorities, which focus on sustainable development and debt sustainability for low-income countries, amongst others.
In addition, he said following Brazil’s model, South Africa’s Presidency aims to develop in-depth discussions on geopolitical matters through ministerial and leadership channels while allowing working groups to focus on technical issues.
He acknowledged the enormous task ahead and the need for support from key members and international organisations.
Dangor announced that the next meeting for the G20 Sherpa will be held from 26 to 28 June 2025 at the Sun City Resort in the North West.