What Highlights Did MoS Margherita Share at the G20 Meeting in South Africa?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- India's effective inclusive social protection.
- Urgent action needed for SDG financing.
- Collaboration with global leaders on climate finance.
- Importance of critical minerals for Africa.
- Focus on AI and disaster resilience.
Johannesburg, July 25 (NationPress) Union Minister of State for External Affairs Pabitra Margherita emphasized India's success in providing inclusive social protection for all while urging immediate measures to close the financing gap for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) during the G20 Development Ministers’ Meeting (DMM) held in South Africa.
"I participated in the inaugural session of the G20 Development Ministers’ Meeting focused on Combating Illicit Financial Flows and Social Protection. I showcased India's significant strides in ensuring inclusive Social Protection for all and stressed the necessity to address the SDG financing gap," Margherita shared on X.
The minister also convened a meeting with Jenny Chapman, the Baroness Chapman of Darlington and UK's Minister for International Development, alongside the event.
"We explored potential avenues for FCDO-India partnership moving forward, along with discussions on mutual concerns such as climate finance, reforming the international financial structure, and collaboration in technology, trade, and education," noted Margherita.
Previously, the Minister of State met with Maropene Ramokgopa, South Africa's Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation. During their discussion, he affirmed India's backing for South Africa's priorities and highlighted the significance of critical minerals and debt sustainability for Africa. He extended an invitation for South Africa to join the International Solar Alliance and the Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure.
Margherita also engaged with Thani Mohamed-Soilihi, France's Minister of International Partnerships, on the sidelines of the G20 Development Ministers’ Meeting.
The two leaders talked about the 4Ps (Planet, People, Peace, and Prosperity), focusing on shared interests in Artificial Intelligence (AI), global financial architecture reform, and enhancing disaster resilience.
“It was a pleasure meeting Thani Mohamed-Soilihi, Minister of International Partnerships from France, during the G20 Development Ministers’ Meeting. Our discussions centered on the 4Ps and our ongoing mutual interest in AI, international financial reform, and resilience against disasters,” Margherita posted on X.
The MoS arrived at Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga, South Africa, on Thursday to attend the G20 DMM after wrapping up his fruitful visit to Lesotho and Eswatini.
Margherita expressed anticipation for meaningful engagements with stakeholders from G20 nations, inviting countries to collaborate on addressing crucial global development challenges.
South Africa will hold the G20 Presidency from December 1, 2024, to November 30, 2025, under the theme of 'Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability'.