'Maybe we would have run away...': Ramaphosa's banter with Modi
What's the story
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, while speaking to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, admitted that hosting the G20 summit was a more challenging task than expected. "You should have told us that it is such a difficult task; maybe we would have run away," he said, half-jokingly. The two leaders were engaged in bilateral talks when Ramaphosa thanked India for its support during South Africa's G20 presidency.
Leadership acknowledgment
Ramaphosa praises India's G20 presidency
Ramaphosa also praised India's leadership during the 2023 summit, saying South Africa learned a lot from it. He said, "We have learned a lot from your hosting of the G20, and yours was spectacular... building ours is really small." To this, PM Modi responded with a smile: "Small is always beautiful."
Foundation credit
Ramaphosa credits India, Brazil, Indonesia for G20 presidency
In his closing address after the talks, Ramaphosa credited India, Brazil, and Indonesia for laying the groundwork for South Africa's G20 presidency. "We learnt a lot from what Indonesia, India, and Brazil did. In many ways, what we see having unfolded here was based on the foundations that those three countries of the Global South put in place," he said. He said their efforts were instrumental in shaping what unfolded during the summit.
Cooperation emphasis
G20 declaration emphasizes multilateral cooperation
Ramaphosa said the G20 declaration reiterated a commitment to multilateral cooperation, highlighting that shared goals are more important than differences. He thanked all G20 members and guests for their presence, saying their commitment was vital "in reaffirming the G20 as the premier forum for international economic cooperation." He also stressed that Africa's growth and development should be at the heart of global agendas.
Global prosperity
Ramaphosa highlights Africa's role in global prosperity
Ramaphosa emphasized that Africa is key to global prosperity in the 21st century and called for strong partnerships between Africa, the G20, and the rest of the world. He also stressed using the declaration to call for an end to conflicts and wars worldwide, and for "a just, comprehensive and lasting peace." "The G20 has pledged to extend support to low- and middle-income countries as they confront debt vulnerabilities," he concluded.