By Phenyo Selinda
President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to lead a high-profile South African delegation to the High-Level General Debate of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA79) in New York, from 24 to 30 September 2024. This annual debate is a pivotal event, bringing together world leaders to discuss pressing global challenges, and President Ramaphosa’s participation signals South Africa’s continued commitment to multilateralism and global cooperation.
The UN General Assembly provides a platform for member states to share their perspectives on international issues, and this year’s session holds particular significance as it is chaired by Philemon Yang, former Prime Minister of Cameroon, representing the African Group. Yang’s presidency of the 79th session underscores Africa’s growing influence within the United Nations and its role in shaping global agendas.
Unity in Diversity: A Focus for Global Peace
Philemon Yang, as the President of the General Assembly (PGA79), has selected “Unity in diversity, for the advancement of peace, sustainable development, and human dignity for everyone everywhere” as the theme for this year’s debate. This theme resonates with the current geopolitical climate, where international collaboration is more critical than ever in addressing conflicts, inequality, and climate change.
President Ramaphosa is expected to deliver South Africa’s statement on the first day of the General Debate, 24 September 2024. His speech will focus on South Africa’s stance on global challenges, such as climate change, sustainable development, economic recovery post-pandemic, and the importance of strengthening multilateral systems. The President will emphasize the need for global unity in tackling these issues, aligning with the overarching theme of UNGA79.
South Africa’s Investment Drive and Economic Diplomacy
Accompanying President Ramaphosa to New York will be several high-ranking officials, including ministers, advisors, and senior government figures. Among the delegation’s primary objectives is to engage in economic diplomacy, leveraging international platforms to attract foreign investment. With South Africa facing significant economic challenges—unemployment, poverty, and inequality—the President’s address will highlight the country’s efforts to foster an environment conducive to investment.
“President Ramaphosa’s participation in UNGA79 is not only about political diplomacy but also about reinforcing South Africa’s economic agenda on the global stage,” said Presidential Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya. “The President’s engagements will focus on showcasing South Africa as an attractive destination for investment, which is crucial for our economic recovery.”
Ramaphosa is expected to hold bilateral talks with several world leaders, including the UN Secretary-General António Guterres. These engagements will provide opportunities to strengthen partnerships and advance South Africa’s investment and development goals. South Africa is poised to play a pivotal role in the upcoming G20 Presidency, and these high-level discussions will help shape its agenda for leading the Group of 20 nations.
Summit of the Future: A New International Consensus
Prior to the General Debate, President Ramaphosa will attend the UN Secretary-General’s Summit of the Future, which is scheduled to take place from 22 to 23 September 2024. This summit is designed to bring world leaders together to forge a new international consensus on accelerating global development and rebuilding trust in multilateral institutions.
At the summit, Heads of State and Government are expected to adopt the Pact for the Future, a key outcome document that outlines the global community’s commitments to achieving sustainable development and addressing challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality.
President Ramaphosa’s address during the Summit of the Future on 22 September 2024 will focus on the importance of collective action in realizing these goals. South Africa’s commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) will be central to the President’s message, as he emphasizes the need for developed nations to support the global South in achieving equitable growth.
“The Pact for the Future will serve as a roadmap for the international community in addressing the interconnected challenges we face today,” said Magwenya. “President Ramaphosa will highlight South Africa’s role in driving global cooperation, particularly in areas such as climate resilience, sustainable development, and economic inclusion.”
Advancing Multilateralism and International Cooperation
A cornerstone of South Africa’s foreign policy has been its advocacy for multilateralism. During his address at the General Debate, President Ramaphosa is expected to underscore the critical importance of international cooperation in tackling global issues such as climate change, pandemics, and conflicts. With the African Union’s goal of achieving Agenda 2063—Africa’s blueprint for economic and social development—Ramaphosa’s speech will also emphasize the continent’s aspirations for peace, security, and prosperity.
“Multilateralism is the only effective means of addressing the complex global challenges we face today,” President Ramaphosa stated ahead of his departure. “South Africa’s participation in UNGA79 will reaffirm our commitment to strengthening international institutions and ensuring that global governance is inclusive, fair, and representative.”
As the leader of a nation that has been instrumental in advocating for peace and security on the African continent, President Ramaphosa will also address ongoing conflicts, particularly in Africa. His speech will reflect South Africa’s efforts in conflict resolution, peacekeeping, and promoting democracy across the continent.
Key Priorities for the G20 Presidency
In addition to his participation in UNGA79, President Ramaphosa will take part in several high-level events focusing on the G20, where South Africa will assume the Presidency in 2025. As the only African member of the G20, South Africa has a unique opportunity to influence global economic policies that impact the continent.
During these events, President Ramaphosa will highlight South Africa’s priorities for its G20 Presidency, including addressing climate change, promoting inclusive economic growth, and reforming global financial institutions. Ramaphosa will advocate for the interests of developing nations, ensuring that their voices are heard in the global economic discourse.
South Africa’s role in the G20 Presidency will also be a focal point during bilateral meetings with key leaders. Ramaphosa’s discussions with leaders from the Global South and major economies will help shape the agenda for the G20 summit in 2025, where South Africa aims to push for reforms in the global financial system to make it more equitable and responsive to the needs of developing nations.
Bilateral Engagements and Strengthening Partnerships
On the sidelines of the General Debate, President Ramaphosa is scheduled to hold bilateral meetings with several heads of state, global leaders, and representatives of international organizations. These meetings will focus on strengthening partnerships, deepening cooperation on shared global challenges, and exploring new avenues for collaboration.
One of the key engagements will be with UN Secretary-General António Guterres, where discussions are expected to center on global peace and security, climate action, and the reform of multilateral institutions. Ramaphosa’s efforts to secure greater African representation in global governance structures, such as the UN Security Council, will likely be a central topic of discussion.
In addition, President Ramaphosa will meet with leaders from key global economies, including the United States, China, and the European Union. These meetings will offer opportunities to discuss bilateral trade, investment, and development cooperation, as well as South Africa’s role in addressing global challenges such as the energy transition and food security.
South Africa’s Leadership in Global Development
As a leading voice for Africa on the global stage, South Africa’s participation in UNGA79 will reaffirm its leadership in advocating for the interests of the Global South. President Ramaphosa’s address is expected to touch on issues such as debt relief for developing nations, equitable access to vaccines and healthcare, and the need for fair trade practices.
“South Africa’s leadership on the global stage is critical in advancing the development agenda for the Global South,” Magwenya stated. “Through multilateral platforms like the United Nations, we can push for reforms that ensure no one is left behind in the pursuit of sustainable development.”
Ramaphosa’s emphasis on strengthening international cooperation comes at a time when the world faces increasing geopolitical tensions and the rise of protectionism. The President will call for renewed commitment to the values of the United Nations and the principles of international law, which are essential for maintaining global peace and security.
Download Here:
Read all our publications on magzter:
https://www.magzter.com/ZA/Central-News-Pty-Ltd/Central-News/Newspaper/All-Issues
Central News also offers Sponsored Editorial Content, Podcasts , Radio / Social Media Simulcast, Video Production , Live Streaming Services, Press Conferences, and Paid Interviews (Video/Audio) etc.
We guarantee exceptional exposure, reach, and engagement, with an excellent return on investment.
Advertisement:
To place your advert on our platforms (Print Newspaper or Digital Platforms) : Please email : sales@centralnews.co.za
For Business Related:
business@centralnews.co.za
Newsroom:
Send your Stories / Media Statements To: newsroom@centralnews.co.za
General Info:
info@centralnews.co.za
Office Administrator:
admin@centralnews.co.za
Whatsapp / Call: 081 495 5487
Website: https://www.centralnews.co.za
Social Media Platforms (@centralnewsza) : Linkedin, Facebook, Tiktok, Twitter, Instagram, Youtube
#centralnewsza #freestate