South Africa Urges G20 to Prioritize Climate Action, Finance at ECSWG

Deputy Minister Narend Singh has called on G20 leaders to urgently accelerate climate action, emphasizing that the world is less than five years from the deadline to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals amid rising poverty, pollution, and record-high greenhouse gas emissions. Speaking at the second G20 Environment and Sustainability Working Group meeting in South Africa, Singh highlighted the expansion of the group's priorities to six distinct areas, including separating climate change and air quality for focused attention. South Africa’s G20 Presidency centers on solidarity, equality, and sustainability, with a strong emphasis on Just Transitions, which incorporates energy transition, societal adaptation, climate resilience, and support for vulnerable communities. Singh stressed the need for enhanced international cooperation, greater access to climate finance, and a comprehensive “whole-of-society and whole-of-economy” approach involving governments, industries, and local stakeholders. Additionally, South Africa's Director-General of the National Treasury, Dr. Duncan Pieterse, urged the G20 to address global economic challenges such as high debt, inflation, and financial instability, reinforcing the bloc's role in fostering global economic recovery and inclusive development. These discussions are shaping the G20 agenda ahead of the upcoming summit, underscoring the intertwined nature of climate and economic issues in global governance.