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G20 Summit: A Historic Landing in Africa

The G20 summit recently made history by convening on the African continent for the first time, taking place in Johannesburg on November 22 and 23, 2025. This landmark event underscores a significant shift in global governance, emphasizing the growing influence of emerging economies and developing nations in international decision-making processes. China's leadership at this historic summit has been particularly prominent, with calls for unity amidst global divisions.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang opened the summit with a powerful reminder of President Xi Jinping's statement from the 17th G20 summit: "Solidarity is strength, but division leads nowhere." In a world increasingly marked by geopolitical tensions, sluggish trade, and widening economic disparities, the call for unity resonated deeply. Li's remarks highlighted the need for G20 member states to elevate the voices of developing countries, advocating for a more equitable and open global economic order.

Elevating the Voice of Developing Nations

For China, the significance of the G20 summit in Africa is underscored by a commitment to amplifying the voices of the Global South. President Xi has continually reinforced China's allegiance to developing nations, stating, "No matter how the international landscape evolves, we in China will always keep the Global South in our heart and maintain our roots there." This meeting represents more than just a gathering; it is a testament to years of China’s advocacy for the representation and rights of developing nations in international governance.

One of China's notable contributions to this effort happened during the 2022 G20 summit in Bali, where they strongly supported the African Union's (AU) bid for G20 membership, granting Africa a permanent seat at the negotiation table. This decision illustrates a significant milestone, transitioning Africa from the peripheries of global discussions to a central player in shaping policies that affect its future.

China's efforts extend beyond the G20 framework; the nation has championed the expansion of BRICS, thereby expanding its reach and fostering greater collaboration among developing nations. Initiatives, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, have solidified China's role in facilitating regional cooperation across Eurasia. Furthermore, the establishment of the International Organization for Mediation (IOMed) has challenged traditional Western dominance over dispute resolution mechanisms, offering alternative pathways for conflict resolution.

China's Vision for a Global Economic Order

As unilateralism and protectionism become increasingly prevalent, China's message at the summit is clear: fostering a truly multilateral environment is the way forward. President Xi has stressed the importance of rejecting hegemonism and power politics, advocating instead for practices that prioritize collective decision-making and development.

With a proactive stance in promoting global free trade, China has entered into numerous free trade agreements with various countries and regions. As of January 2025, China had signed 23 agreements, illustrating its commitment to enhancing economic collaboration and integration worldwide. Efforts also include expanding its engagement with ASEAN and participating in frameworks like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership.

Infrastructure investment has been a cornerstone of China's approach to openness, exemplified through initiatives such as the Belt and Road Initiative. This ambitious project seeks to create cross-border links that facilitate trade and economic growth, particularly for developing nations that view such development as vital to their progress.

Conclusion: A New Chapter

In conclusion, the G20 summit in Africa marks a pivotal chapter in global governance, one where the voices of developing nations, especially those of the Global South, are increasingly amplified. China's earnest efforts to foster unity and collaboration present a hopeful narrative in navigating the complexities of our world. With commitments to supporting regional cooperation and advocating for fair representation, the summit lays the groundwork for a more inclusive global economic landscape.

As we look to the future, the themes of solidarity and collective action will likely define the ongoing dialogues within the G20 and the broader international community. China's leadership is a crucial element of this evolving narrative, reinforcing the belief that unity, rather than division, is essential for global peace and prosperity.