Jaishankar to Travel to South Africa for G20 Foreign Ministers' Summit

External Affairs Minister (EAM) Dr. S. Jaishankar is set to embark on a two-day visit to South Africa on February 20-21, 2025, to participate in the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting (FMM). The visit comes at the invitation of Ronald Lamola, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation. This significant engagement reflects India’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its role within the G20 and amplifying the Global South’s voice on key global issues.

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced Jaishankar’s visit on Wednesday, highlighting its importance in strengthening India’s diplomatic ties and advancing its global agenda. South Africa, as the current G20 Chair, will host the meeting in Johannesburg, focusing on critical issues including global governance, sustainable development, and international cooperation.

Strengthening India's Role in the G20

Jaishankar’s participation in the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting aligns with India’s broader objective to reinforce its diplomatic relationships and influence within the G20 framework. The meeting provides a strategic platform for India to advocate for the interests of developing nations, especially those in the Global South.

The MEA’s statement underscored that India’s engagement at the G20 FMM will not only strengthen diplomatic ties but also ensure that the concerns of emerging economies are effectively represented. With South Africa holding the G20 presidency, the meeting is expected to focus on collaborative solutions for global challenges such as climate change, economic recovery, and sustainable development.

Bilateral Meetings on the Sidelines

During his visit, Dr. Jaishankar is also expected to hold several bilateral meetings with key counterparts from other G20 member states. These discussions will likely focus on enhancing trade, security cooperation, and addressing regional and global issues of mutual interest.

Such meetings provide a unique opportunity for India to discuss pressing matters, including climate policy, global health, and sustainable development goals (SDGs). Jaishankar’s diplomatic engagements on the sidelines will further deepen bilateral relations and explore new areas of cooperation with participating nations.

India-South Africa Relations in Focus

The visit also highlights the strong diplomatic ties between India and South Africa. Both countries share a historical bond rooted in the anti-apartheid movement and continue to collaborate on global platforms like BRICS, IBSA, and the United Nations.

South Africa's G20 presidency provides an opportunity to enhance this partnership, focusing on shared priorities such as multilateralism, inclusive economic growth, and regional security. Jaishankar’s visit reaffirms India’s support for South Africa’s leadership and its shared vision for a fairer global order.

Advocating for the Global South

A key agenda for India at the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting will be to amplify the voice of the Global South. This refers to a coalition of developing countries seeking greater representation and equitable solutions in global governance.

As a vocal proponent of the Global South, India is expected to push for initiatives that address concerns like debt relief, climate justice, and equitable access to technology. Jaishankar’s participation emphasizes India’s commitment to ensuring that the voices of emerging economies are heard on the international stage.

India’s Continued Leadership in Global Diplomacy

India’s engagement at the G20 FMM is part of a broader strategy to solidify its leadership in global affairs. This visit underscores India’s diplomatic prowess and its efforts to address shared global concerns through multilateral dialogue.

By participating in high-level meetings and engaging in bilateral talks, India continues to position itself as a key player in shaping the future of global governance. Jaishankar’s visit to South Africa will further India’s goals of fostering collaboration, driving sustainable development, and strengthening multilateralism.

Conclusion

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s visit to South Africa for the G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting marks a crucial moment in India’s diplomatic calendar. Through this visit, India aims to strengthen its relationships with G20 nations, advocate for the Global South, and contribute to shaping global policy discussions. As the world navigates complex challenges, India’s active participation in such forums highlights its commitment to a more inclusive and cooperative world order.