Minister Lamola urges G20 to end exploitation of Africa's mineral wealth
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has called for a fairer, more equitable global order and an end to exploitative resource extraction practices that disadvantage Africa, stating that the G20 must drive transformational diplomacy, global peace, and sustainable development.
Speaking at the G20 Sherpa Meeting hosted in Sun City, North West Province, Lamola warned that the global economy is under increasing strain from geopolitical tensions, economic nationalism, and climate-induced disasters.
He urged the G20 to be bold in reforming multilateral institutions and ensuring equitable participation for developing nations.
'This is not just economics; it is Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability – the theme of our Presidency,' said Lamola.
'The G20 is a platform that can ensure: the era of extraction without equity ends, and we begin an era of true partnership and collaboration for the good of sustainable development across countries.'
Lamola reminded delegates that South Africa's international outlook is rooted in its liberation struggle, referencing the 1955 Freedom Charter, which declared: 'There shall be peace and friendship!'
'The Freedom Charter became the foundational document of our Constitution. It informs our constitutional and international outlook, it has a 70-year-old foundation; it will never change,' he said.
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