Ethiopia’s has been participating in many international conferences. It is vital for its economic development and political influence. Engaging with global leaders allows Ethiopia to attract foreign investment, enhance trade partnerships and advocate for the interests of developing nations.
It enables the country to address pressing global challenges like climate change and public health, securing necessary support and resources. Additionally, Ethiopia can showcase its rich cultural heritage, fostering international collaboration and understanding.
Furthermore, active diplomacy in international forums strengthens Ethiopia’s global standing and facilitates access to development assistance, contributing to its growth and stability.
Ethiopia recently took part in the G-20 Foreign Ministers’ Forum held in Johannesburg, South Africa. This year’s forum, themed “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability,” served as a platform for high level strategic discussions regarding the current global geopolitical landscape and its implications for international cooperation.
During the meeting, South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola highlighted several key priorities for the G-20. These include enhancing disaster resilience, ensuring debt sustainability for low-income nations, mobilizing financial resources for a fair energy transition and leveraging critical minerals to promote inclusive growth and development.
Ethiopia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Gedion Timothewos, addressed the gathering, emphasizing the multifaceted challenges the world faces today, including geopolitical tensions, conflicts and the pressing issue of climate change.
According to government data, in the past five years, Ethiopia has actively worked to combat climate change through nature-based solutions. The country’s Green Legacy program has resulted in the planting of over 40 billion seedlings. This initiative is fundamental in reversing land degradation, alleviating poverty, and addressing food insecurity by boosting agricultural productivity.
The Green Legacy program not only benefits Ethiopia but also contributes to mitigating the impacts of drought and flooding in East Africa and beyond. By enhancing the resilience of ecosystems, Ethiopia aims to play a significant role in global climate efforts.
Minister Gedion emphasized the necessity of balancing competition with cooperation among nations. He called for collaborative efforts within the international community, particularly among G-20 member states, to forge a stable, secure, and prosperous future.
He also advocated for the revitalization of collective security frameworks and the reform of global institutions to ensure that the voices of developing nations are included in global discussions.
In his remarks, Gedion urged the international community to strengthen support for the development aspirations of low-income countries. He said that inclusivity is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals, particularly in light of the challenges posed by climate change and geopolitical instability.
The discussions at the G-20 Forum come at a critical time when global cooperation is more vital than ever. Ethiopia’s participation underscores its commitment to addressing global challenges through sustainable practices and collaborative initiatives.
By actively engaging in these discussions, Ethiopia aims to not only enhance its own development trajectory but also contribute to a more resilient and equitable world. The outcomes of this forum could pave the way for more robust partnerships and investment in sustainable development, which are essential for overcoming the pressing challenges faced by nations worldwide.
On the other hand, at the recent G-20 Foreign Ministers’ Forum, a representative from the African Union (AU) highlighted the continent’s priorities and aspirations. Téte António, the AU G-20 Head of Delegation, addressed the ministers, emphasizing the strong alignment between South Africa’s G-20 objectives and Agenda 2063, which serves as Africa’s roadmap for inclusive growth, sustainable development, and technological innovation.
In his speech, he pointed out that this alignment offers a significant opportunity to open Africa’s development while also contributing to global prosperity. He commended the G-20’s focus on key areas such as industrialization, job creation, and reducing inequality, which resonate with the AU’s Strategic Framework for Inclusive Growth.
Moreover, the G-20’s Food Security Task Force initiatives align closely with the AU’s Post-Malabo Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP). This program aims to transform agricultural practices across Africa and ensure food security, addressing one of the continent’s most pressing challenges.
The AU also reiterated its commitment to the G-20 Compact with Africa, urging all African nations and G-20 members to engage in this crucial initiative designed to promote economic reforms and attract investments. By fostering a collaborative environment, the AU believes that both Africa and the global community can benefit.
Additionally, he advocated for addressing the issue of unfair credit rating practices that often lead to high interest rates for African countries. This call for reform underscores the AU’s commitment to creating a more equitable financial landscape for nations on the continent.
Through these discussions, the AU aims to reinforce Africa’s position in global conversations, ensuring that the continent’s needs and aspirations are prioritized within the G-20 framework. The outcomes of such dialogues could pave the way for enhanced cooperation and investment, ultimately benefiting both Africa and the international community.
During the leaders’ discussion at the G-20 Foreign Ministers’ Forum, concerns were raised regarding the slow progress in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Lamola emphasized the urgent need to accelerate efforts toward these objectives, highlighting their importance for global well-being.
The G-20 ministers reaffirmed their collective responsibility to promote sustainable, resilient, and inclusive growth, which they view as essential to the broader multilateral system. He stated that fostering such growth is vital for addressing the various challenges facing nations today.
Regarding ongoing conflicts in regions such as Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, the forum reiterated the necessity for all countries to act in alignment with the principles of the United Nations Charter. This commitment reflects a unified stance among G-20 members to uphold international law and promote peace.
The ministers expressed their support for peace initiatives in critical conflict zones, including Ukraine, Palestine, Sudan, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. These commitments underscore the G-20’s recognition of the interconnectedness of global issues and the need for collaborative solutions.
Moreover, the meeting highlighted the urgent need for reforming the international governance system. This includes revising the international financial architecture, overhauling the multilateral trading system, and enhancing the roles of multilateral development banks. Such reforms are deemed necessary to create a more equitable global economic environment.
In addition, the forum placed significant emphasis on inclusivity in economic development, food security, advancements in artificial intelligence and the transition to sustainable energy sources. By addressing these critical areas, the G-20 aims to foster a more equitable and sustainable future for all nations. As global challenges continue to evolve, the collective actions of the G-20 will be vital in shaping a resilient and prosperous world.
BY FIKADU BELAY
THE ETHIOPIAN HERALD SATURDAY 1 MARCH 2025
