#China #G20 #Johannesburg #South Africa #Unity

China's Call for Unity at the Inaugural G20 Summit in Africa

The G20 summit, which took place in Johannesburg, marks a significant milestone as it was the first time the gathering of world leaders was held on the African continent. This landmark event, held from November 22 to 23, 2025, represents a pivotal shift in global governance, as developing economies and emerging markets are moving from the sidelines to the forefront of decision-making.

During the opening session, Chinese Premier Li Qiang highlighted the importance of unity among nations, referencing President Xi Jinping’s previous remarks from the G20 summit in Bali, stating, "Solidarity is strength, while division leads nowhere." In a climate rife with geopolitical tensions, diminishing trade exchanges, and widening gaps in development, Li emphasized that collective efforts are essential for global progress. He urged G20 members to listen to and represent the voices of developing countries and contribute to establishing a more equitable economic order.

Elevating the Voices of the Global South

For China, this summit underscores the necessity of amplifying the voice of the Global South within the current multilateral framework. President Xi reaffirmed China's commitment to keeping the interests of the developing world at the core, expressing that despite evolving international dynamics, China will always root itself in the priorities of the Global South.

Over the years, under Xi’s leadership, China has taken tangible actions to defend the rights of developing countries. This commitment includes enhancing their representation in international governance and striving for a fairer global order. For instance, during the previous G20 summit, China advocated for the African Union's admission into the G20, granting the continent a permanent seat at negotiations, rather than relegating them to the margins.

Beyond the G20, China has supported the historical expansion of BRICS, shifting its focus to include a wider array of nations, thus creating what it terms a “new pathway for enhanced cooperation among BRICS countries.� Furthermore, it promoted the Shanghai Cooperation Organization as a vital regional platform uniting countries across Eurasia, while the International Mediation Organization (IMO), co-founded by China and over 30 other nations, aims to challenge the Western monopoly on conflict resolution mechanisms.

Building a Global Economy Open to All

Amid unrelenting unilateralism and protectionism, Xi indicated that hegemonism and power politics run counter to historical progress, advocating for authentic multilateralism. Throughout various international forums, he reiterated China’s unwavering dedication to an open economy,
showcasing efforts to promote free trade worldwide.

In early 2025, China successfully concluded 23 free trade agreements with 30 countries or regions. On the regional front, China has encouraged economic integration through an expanding network of free trade agreements, including an enhanced agreement with ASEAN and the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). These initiatives illustrate China's willingness to elevate market standards and interconnectivity.

Infrastructure and investment represent another focal area in China’s agenda. Through the Belt and Road Initiative and institutions like the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the New Development Bank, Beijing supports trans-border linkages that many developing nations view as critical gateways to growth and commerce.

Conclusion

As the G20 summit concludes, the emphasis on unity rather than division reflects China’s broader strategy to reinforce the significance of developing countries in global governance. Through proactive initiatives and partnerships, China continues to bolster the representation and voices of these nations on the world stage, advocating for a more inclusive and just global order that encourages collaboration among all countries.