South Africa Advocates for Cooperation at G20 Amid Global Tensions

President Cyril Ramaphosa convened G20 foreign ministers in South Africa amidst tensions over Ukraine and U.S. absence. He underscored the importance of multilateralism and international law in resolving world crises, warning against divisions that jeopardize global cooperation. The meeting focused on finding common ground to strengthen diplomatic solutions to ongoing conflicts.

In Johannesburg, South Africa, foreign ministers from the G20 convened amidst geopolitical tensions and the notable absence of the United States Secretary of State. These discussions are set against the backdrop of significant divides regarding critical issues, such as Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, climate change, and differing national agendas.

President Cyril Ramaphosa, presiding over the G20, emphasized the importance of international cooperation and adherence to global laws. He articulated that multilateralism should underpin efforts to address pressing world crises, while expressing concern over the lack of consensus on responses to significant global challenges.

Ramaphosa remarked, “It is critical that the principles of the UN Charter, multilateralism and international law should remain at the centre of all our endeavours. It should be the glue that keeps us together.” He highlighted the fragility of global coexistence amid rising strife among major powers, particularly within the G20.

The absence of the United States, following its rejection of the meeting’s agenda associated with diversity and inclusion, sparked further discord. The backdrop includes U.S. President Donald Trump reducing aid to South Africa while tensions rise over issues of historical racial injustice and international legal proceedings involving Israel.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, however, participated in the meeting, aligning with other officials from EU nations that support Ukraine and denounce Russia’s actions. Divergent responses to U.S. policies post-Trump’s election reignite concerns among European allies and Ukraine’s leadership regarding the future of diplomatic engagements.

In light of these complexities, President Ramaphosa urged unity and collaboration among G20 nations, asserting, “Let us seek to find common ground through constructive engagement.” He reiterated the necessity for diplomatic resolutions to various global conflicts, advocating proactive addresses to ongoing crises in regions like the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, and Gaza.

The G20 meeting in South Africa illustrated significant international tensions, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. President Cyril Ramaphosa stressed the need for unity and adherence to international law as vital components in addressing global crises. The divisions among major powers, exemplified by the absence of the U.S., threaten the collaborative spirit essential for effective multilateralism. The call for constructive engagement remains critical for resolving pressing issues worldwide.

Original Source: www.aljazeera.com