Ramaphosa wants SA to use G20 presidency to strive for equal opportunities for all

CAPE TOWN - President Cyril Ramaphosa said that South Africa's presidency of the G20 was not only about advancing its own interests but that of the continent and other emerging economies.

South Africa is the only African country to be part of the bloc of 19 developed and emerging economies and the first to host the G20. 

Launching South Africa's presidency at Parliament on Tuesday, Ramaphosa said that government would build on the developmental agenda set by other emerging economies which have hosted the group.

South Africa's G20 presidency will be held under the theme of solidarity, equality and sustainability. 

The main element of its logo is the king protea - to symbolise resilience, cultural pride, hope and natural splendour.

President Ramaphosa said that he wanted South Africa to use the G20 presidency to strive for equal opportunities for all. 

"South Africa will seek to harness global commitment and capabilities to confront challenges the world faces. We all seek to achieve more rapid, inclusive, and economic growth."

He said that the impacts of climate change, disaster resilience and food security would top the year-long agenda. 

"Through solidarity, we can create an inclusive future that will advance the interests of people at the greatest risk of being left behind."

Ramaphosa said that civil society groups would be given a prominent platform to bridge the divide between citizens and leaders over the course of at least 130 meetings that will be held countrywide in the coming year.