South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said the IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa) grouping is a catalyst of global change and a symbol of hope for the global South. Ramaphosa said this on the occasion of assuming the presidency of South Africa’s IBSA.
“Together we represent not only the aspirations of our citizens, but also the hopes of a global South that seeks dignity, respect and partnership in shaping the future,” Ramaphosa said on Sunday at the IBSA leaders’ dialogue on the sidelines of the G20 leaders’ summit that ended in Johannesburg.
Ramaphosa made this comment during his meeting with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The President said that the world we live in is changing rapidly and dramatically. He said that IBSA nations are ready to be part of global change, a better future and shape the global agenda.
The African President said, ‘IBSA is a testament to the sustainability of principled and constructive cooperation. Our group emphasizes that diversity is not a flaw, but a source of strength. It reminds us that cooperation among equals is essential for global peace, prosperity and stability.
He said that our cooperation is based on the everyday realities of our people. He urged fellow countries to reform global governance institutions. Ramaphosa also called for strengthening commitments to climate action, deepening cooperation on equitable energy transitions, protecting food and health security, and ensuring equitable distribution of the benefits of technological progress.
“We must position ourselves as co-builders of a more representative and accountable multilateral system,” he said. The structural flaws in the global economy – the widening gap between rich and poor and deepening poverty and underdevelopment – can be effectively addressed only through a new paradigm of inclusive economic growth.’
“Through initiatives such as the IBSA Fund, we continue to demonstrate the practical value of our cooperation, particularly in the form of assistance delivered to those most in need,” Ramaphosa said. The President expressed hope that an IBSA Leaders’ Summit would take place soon at a mutually agreed date.
