St. Petersburg: Deputy President Paul Mashatile has highlighted the importance of solidarity and collaboration in today’s rapidly evolving global landscape. Delivering a public lecture at St. Petersburg State University, the Deputy President explained that South Africa’s Presidency of the Group of 20 (G20) comes at a time characterised by geopolitical tensions and economic disparities.
According to South African Government News Agency, Deputy President Mashatile arrived in Russia this week for a working visit aimed at strengthening economic and trade ties between the two nations. The visit focuses on enhancing economic cooperation between the two countries in sectors such as agriculture, automotive, energy, and mining industries, as well as cooperation in science and technology.
Deputy President Mashatile’s speech highlighted South Africa’s role as the current chair of the G20 and its commitment to addressing pressing global challenges. South Africa’s G20 Presidency theme: ‘Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability’ articulates the necessary principles of fostering a more inclusive global community. He reiterated the importance of global solidarity, urging those present to work together to create a more equitable world.
The Deputy President called for unity, adding that ‘we must build upon that legacy and strengthen our cooperation in science, technology, research, and innovation’. Universities like St. Petersburg State University can play a pivotal role in bridging the priorities of BRICS, the African Union, and the G20. He praised the university’s Faculty of International Relations and the Institute for African Studies for their engagement with scholars across Africa.
He extended an invitation for deeper collaborations with leading South African institutions, emphasising the mutual benefits that such partnerships could foster. The Deputy President highlighted the university’s impressive legacy, noting that it has produced numerous renowned figures, including President Vladimir Putin and the Russian revolutionary Vladimir Lenin.
Reflecting on the historical ties between South Africa and Russia, Mashatile expressed gratitude for the support received during the anti-apartheid struggle. Despite the prevailing geopolitical environment, he said South Africa is steadfast in its commitment to this course. With its G20 Presidency, South Africa possesses a unique opportunity to influence the global discourse on critical issues.
The G20 has a significant role to play in fostering global cooperation, collaboration, and partnership to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) of the 2030 Agenda. The Deputy President announced that the country’s G20 Presidency will, through its four overarching priorities, seek to address challenges that stifle the ability of the Global South to achieve desired levels of growth and development. Additionally, South Africa will take steps to enhance disaster resilience and response, ensure debt sustainability for low-income nations, mobilise financing for a Just Energy Transition, and seek to leverage critical minerals for inclusive growth and sustainable development.