Johannesburg: Speaking on his behalf, Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb delivered the President of the Republic’s address at the G20 Summit in Johannesburg, held under the theme “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainable Development.” President Tebboune stated that the world is currently facing “extremely complex political and economic challenges which, if left unaddressed, could undermine global harmony and affect all countries, regardless of their level of development.” He called for joint efforts “with innovative ideas and precise and comprehensive initiatives” to confront these threats.
According to Algeria Press Service, President Tebboune highlighted poverty, unemployment, inequality, development disparities, particularly in Africa, as well as the chronic crises stemming from climate change, energy shortages, food insecurity, and unprecedented debt levels in low-income countries. These issues, he said, “require continued consideration of international plans and initiatives based on solidarity, in order to achieve
tangible and practical results that meet the aspirations of our peoples, especially in the poorest countries.”
Despite efforts by the United Nations, “there is still a long way to go” to meet global development goals, particularly for the poor and least developed nations, the President of the Republic noted. With only five years remaining until the 2030 deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), he pointed out that these targets “remain largely out of reach,” with just 12 percent on track and half facing significant obstacles that demand greater mobilisation.
President Tebboune praised the priorities set by South Africa, the current G20 chair, aimed at delivering realistic and tangible solutions to enable a new era of shared growth, especially for the poorest countries and those affected by drought and desertification in Africa. He described the G20 as “a driving force for global transformation” and expressed honour that President Cyril Ramaphosa is representing the voice of Africa in mobilizing
resources and securing special attention for the continent from G20 partners.
The President of the Republic stressed that higher development rates in African countries are closely linked to stability, peace, and development, which in turn contribute to reducing migration to economically advanced nations and resolving conflicts on the continent.