South African Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called for a strengthened partnership between the G20 and the African Union (AU), as Pretoria seeks to embed African priorities at the heart of the global economic agenda during its year-long G20 presidency.
Speaking at the opening of the T20 Africa high-level dialogue in Pretoria, Mashatile emphasized the continent’s role in shaping solutions to global challenges, from economic equity to peace-building. The two-day event brings together policy experts, think tanks, and development institutions from Africa and beyond, and is convened by leading research bodies including the South African Institute of International Affairs and the African Union Development Agency.
“As G20 president, South Africa is not simply representing national interests—we are here for the continent,” Mashatile said. “We’ve worked closely with the AU to ensure that our presidency reflects Africa’s voice across six core priority areas.”
These include inclusive growth, fair financial architecture, climate action, industrial development, job creation, and global governance reforms. Mashatile said these themes are being driven through dedicated G20 task forces that aim to reduce inequality and promote equitable development.
The Think 20 (T20), a formal G20 engagement group that unites global think tanks and research institutions, serves as a key platform to inform policymaking throughout the G20’s term. South Africa assumed the presidency on December 1, 2024, and will hold the position until November 2025.
Highlighting collaboration with the AU, Mashatile noted efforts to harness artificial intelligence and agricultural innovation to secure food systems and uplift rural economies. “Rural industrialization and resilient supply chains are not just economic goals—they’re pathways to sovereignty and dignity,” he said.
He also urged G20 partners to support peace initiatives across Africa through predictable and sustainable financing for AU-led operations, echoing calls aligned with the AU’s Silencing the Guns initiative. “Without peace, there can be no progress. We call on our global partners to stand with Africa in securing lasting stability.”
As South Africa leads one of the world’s most influential economic forums, its government is pushing for a legacy of inclusion—one that elevates African agency in global decision-making.