TOPIC: "Own Your Power: Learn, Lead, and Lift Others"

Programme Director, Ms. Rene Van Den Heever,
Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman, Founder of Gift of the Givers,
Alderman Eddie Andrews, Executive Deputy Mayor of the City of Cape Town,
Ms. Tracy Mkhize, Acting CEO of CTICC,
Officials from the Presidency and local government,
Educators and parents,
Partners and sponsors,
And most importantly our young people in attendance today,

Good morning, 

I am so excited to join you at the 2025 Youth in Action Expo, hosted in this vibrant space of innovation, courage, and possibility. Thank you to the City of Cape Town, the Gift of the Givers Foundation, our education sector, civil society, and each exhibitor who has made this platform possible.

Today, we are not just addressing young people; we are speaking to the future CEOs, scientists, artists, engineers, farmers, educators, and changemakers of South Africa.

You are the hope we carry and the power we must unlock. 

I am a firm believer that young people are not only the leaders of tomorrow but rather the leaders of today as leadership is something that is shaped throughout one’s life – whether as a class rep, captain of the debating society, drama club or soccer team. We harness our leadership capabilities throughout our schooling career through our various interactions. 

Therefore let me start by congratulating all of your for making it to this year’s Expo. I am confident that your presence here today will open a completely new old of endless opportunities, bringing each and every one of you closer to your dreams. 

My fellow youth, we meet at the end of youth month commemorating 49 years since the June 16, 1976 uprising where the youth stood at the forefront of the liberation of our country. They were determined, fearless and relentless in pursuing a future South Africa they wanted to live in. 

Guided by the Freedom Charter, they fundamentally believed that South Africa belongs to all, black and white. As we celebrate 70 years of the Freedom Charter tomorrow, let us ask ourselves what lessons we can draw from the youth of 1976 to make a meaningful contribution to a future South Africa. 

The theme for this year’s youth month is “Skills for the changing world - Empowering youth for meaningful economic participation.” In this line with this, today’s expo is therefore seminal as a platform to connect young people with career pathways, educational opportunities and job prospects. 

Ladies and gentlemen,

We are all well aware of the plight of youth from our communities. Our peers are unemployed, some drowning in depression, susceptible to negative influences and finding themselves in drugs and crime. 

It is for this reason that as government, together with our social partners such as Gift of Givers commit ourselves to work tirelessly to improve the plight of youth in our country. We are working across all sectors of government to strengthen the economy, drive skills development, and connect young people with real opportunities.

Whether you are headed to a university, TVET College, or into the world of business, government has made great strides to support you on your journey.

Through the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET), we continue to expand access to universities and TVET colleges. Institutions across the country are offering programmes in engineering, technology, business, hospitality, agriculture, and so much more. Through public sector investment, the post-schooling sector has transformed to doing online applications with majority of the institutions having waivered the application fee. We therefore encourage Grade 12 learners who are yet to apply to institutions of learning to do so immediately after today. 

Through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), government ensures that students coming from poor and working class backgrounds are not left behind as a result of their inability to afford education by providing funding for qualifying students to study at the institution of their choice. I must state that myself am a beneficiary of NSFAS having completed by undergraduate degree with the help of NSFAS funding. 

Additionally, there are scholarships and bursaries offered by various government departments and private sector partners. The various stalls from the different partners will have more information and we urge you to visit them. 

Compatriots,

Because we know that education does not only happen in lecture halls, many of you are passionate about starting your own businesses or pursuing careers in sports, arts and culture, there are equally of plenty opportunities waiting for you. 

The Department of Sports, Arts and Culture supports youth through development programmes, creative arts grants, and sporting academies. We want to see more young people telling their stories, performing on stages, creating jobs, and flying the flag on the sports field. From this collective seated here today, we want to see the future Grammy Award winning artists like Tyla and Trevor Noah, World Cup winning sportsmen like Siya Kolisi and Miss Universe winning models such as Zozibini Tunzi. 

For those of you with entrepreneurial ambitions, government and its partners are investing in youth-owned businesses. From start-up funding to business mentorship programmes provided by the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and the Department of Small Business Development among other, government is committed to creating an enabling environment for you to build and own your future.

For those of us who are still in school, we continue to invest in safe and supportive learning environments. We know that learners cannot thrive in fear. That is why we are working to promote safe schools, free from drugs, bullying, violence, and gangsterism. Our schools must be places of dignity, safety, and growth. They must be places where we Learn, Lead, and Lift Others. 

We will only Learn, Lead and Lift Others when we maintain the basic principles of discipline, dedication, respect and compassion for others. Owning our poor as youth of 2025 like the youth of 1976 can only happen when we refuse to do that which robes us of our future. 

I therefore challenge you today to remain steadfast in your path to a prosperous future – work hard, stay on cause and importantly, choose your friends wisely. 

Before I conclude,

I want to pay tribute to Dr. Imtiaz Sooliman and the Gift of the Givers as a shining example of how one organisation, powered by volunteers, can bring hope to millions.

I challenge you today: get involved. Volunteer. Give your time. Help someone without expecting something in return. Whether it is cleaning your street, tutoring a classmate, or joining a community project your hands can heal and your voice can uplift.

Volunteering teaches humility, builds networks, opens doors and more than anything it reminds us that we are powerful when we serve.

In closing, 

I want to repeat, you are not the leaders of tomorrow. You are the leaders right now!!

Let us rise with purpose. Let us choose discipline over distraction. Let us honour those who paved the way by walking it with integrity.

And as you leave this room today, ask yourself this: What am I doing with the power I already have? Am I letting it go to waste or am I working towards changing the lives of my family, transforming my community and my country? 

Let us own our power by learning, leading and lifting others. 

I thank you and wish you well. 

The Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, will deliver the keynote address at the 2025 Youth in Action Expo held at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC 2) on Wednesday, 25 June 2025.

Hosted in partnership with the Gift of the Givers Foundation, local government, and various educational and development stakeholders, the Youth in Action Expo is a dynamic platform that brings together learners, educators, youth-focused organisations, and public/private institutions to provide career guidance, skills development, and inspiration.

The Deputy Minister’s address will focus on the importance of youth empowerment, active citizenship, and the role of young people in shaping South Africa’s future. 

Members of the Media are invited to cover the event as follows:
Date: Wednesday, 25 June 2025
Time: 09:00 – 11:00 AM
Venue: CTICC 2, Cape Town

RSVP & enquiries: Mandisa Mbele, Head of Office, 082 580 2213 / MandisaM@Presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will, on Wednesday, 25 June 2025, and on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa and the people of South Africa, attend the Republic of Mozambique’s 50th National Independence Anniversary Celebrations scheduled to take place in Machava Stadium, Maputo.

The President of the Republic of Mozambique, His Excellency, Daniel Chapo, has invited South Africa to its 50th National Independence Anniversary Celebrations. The 50th National Independence Anniversary will be celebrated under the theme “50 Years of Independence: Consolidating National Unity, Peace and Sustainable Development”.

The people of Mozambique will use this occasion to acknowledge their achievements, reflect on the challenges they face, and how to turn Mozambique into a prosperous, democratic and peaceful country in the next 50 years.

It is expected that the Celebrations will be preceded by a visit to the Mozambican Heroes Monument for a wreath laying ceremony in honour of 50 years of National Independence ahead of the main Celebrations at the Machava Stadium in Maputo.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Political Advisor and Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President on 066 195 8840

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria
 

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Wednesday, 25 June 2025, respond to Questions for Oral Reply in the National Council of Provinces (NCOP) in Parliament, Cape Town.

Questions presented to the President range over the Government of National Unity’s stance on black economic empowerment, a social compact to rebuild the economy, youth unemployment, and shortcomings in budgetary management and service delivery in municipalities.

The President’s engagement with the NCOP gives effect to accountability by the executive arm of the state to the legislature and to the principles of cooperative governance between provinces and national sphere.

The engagement will take place as follows:

Date: Wednesday, 25 June 2025
Time: 14h00
Venue: Nieuwmeester Dome, Cape Town

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President - media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Deputy President Shipokosa Paulus Mashatile will on Friday, 27 June 2025, attend and deliver the keynote address at the High-Level G20 Inter-generational Roundtable, hosted by the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) at the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, Gauteng Province.

The Roundtable takes place under the theme: "Advancing Equity, Building Capabilities, and Igniting Innovation", and forms part of South Africa’s G20 Presidency. It brings together youth activists and professionals, captains of industry, international partners, and policymakers to deliberate on inclusive development pathways and generational equity.

The engagement also aims to amplify youth voices in shaping national and global development agendas, while accelerating opportunities for their meaningful inclusion in economic, governance, and innovation ecosystems.

The Inter-generational Roundtable will feature high-level contributions from members of Cabinet, captains of industry, continental development partners and civil society.

In line with the priorities of the G20 Presidency, Deputy President Mashatile will reflect on building youth capabilities for a developmental state, addressing structural barriers faced by young people, and advancing Government-led solutions through collaborative policy instruments, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), and strategic investment in education, innovation, and inclusive growth.

This Roundtable engagement, which advances the development and empowerment of the county’s young people, falls within the ambit of the Deputy President’s responsibility as the Chairperson of the Human Resource Development Council (HRDC). 

Members of the media are invited to attend and cover the event as follows:

Date: Friday, 27 June 2025
Time: 09h00
Venue: Sandton Convention Centre, Johannesburg, Gauteng Province

For details and accreditation, kindly contact Ms Pheladi Moruthane (NYDA) on 074 481 8912.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President, on 066 195 8840.

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa will on Tuesday, 24 June 2025, conduct an oversight visit to Nuclear Medicine Research Infrastructure (NuMeRI) Facility, a one-stop-shop medical imaging facility dedicated to Cancer and TB drug development and imaging-based clinical research, housed at the Steve Biko Academic Hospital in Pretoria. 

This is a world class facility that showcases a successful partnership between Department of Health, Department of Science and Innovation, and the University of Pretoria with significant support from the private sector.

President Ramaphosa will also visit cardias cathetherisation laboratory, which is part of the radiology department. The visit will highlight South Africa’s commitment to scientific innovation, equitable access to healthcare, and integrated infrastructure investment.

President will be accompanied by Ministers and Deputy Ministers including Minister of Health, Dr Aaron Motsoaledi; Gauteng Premier, Panyaza Lesufi; and Gauteng Health and Wellness MEC, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko. 

Details of the visit are as follows:

Date: Tuesday, 24 June 2025 
Time: 10h00
Venue: Steve Biko Academic Hospital, Corner Steve Biko Road and Malan Street, Pretoria

Due to space limitations, the visit will be restricted to the Government Communications and Information System (GCIS), which will disseminate the materials to all media post the visit.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President - media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has returned to South Africa after concluding a successful Working Visit to the Russian Federation, spanning the two cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg, where he engaged in a number of activities aimed at strengthening the bilateral trade and economic relations between South Africa and Russia.

At the conclusion of his visit, the Deputy President sat down with two of Russia’s major television news networks, Russia Today and Sputnik Africa, where he reflected on some of the key take-aways from the Working Visit, including a particular focus on enhancing economic cooperation in sectors such as agriculture, automotive, energy and mining industries as well as science and technology cooperation. 

Deputy President Mashatile arrived in Moscow on 17 June 2025, where he was received by Russia’s Deputy Head of State Protocol, Mr Andrei Milyaev; Deputy Director of African Department, Mr Andrei Stotlarov; and International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister, Alvin Botes.

The Working Visit kicked off in earnest with the Deputy President laying wreaths at the Mausoleum of Moses Kotane and J.B Marks at the Novodevichy Cemetery and UN Heritage Site in Moscow. Moses Kotane and JB Marks were anti-apartheid activists active in the South African Communist Party and African National Congress and had a significant influence on South Africa’s journey towards freedom and democracy. Initially buried for years in Moscow, their remains were subsequently returned by the South African Government and reburied in the North West Province in March 2015.

In Moscow, Deputy President Mashatile also met His Excellency Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin at the House of the Government of the Russian Federation for a discussion on opportunities for bilateral political and economic cooperation between South Africa and Russia to unlock areas of further cooperation in trade & investment, mineral & energy, agriculture, health and education.

Deputy President Mashatile then traveled to St. Petersburg State University, where he was warmly received by Acting Rector Professor Sergey Andryushin, ahead of a Public Lecture the Deputy President delivered under the theme - “South Africa’s G20 Presidency in a rapidly changing geo-political environment”. The Public Lecture audience included Faculty professors, students, the academic community as well as media and members of the Diplomatic Corps.

Also in St. Petersburg, the Deputy President paid a courtesy call on President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation at the Constantine Palace as part of his Working Visit, where he had a bilateral meeting with President Putin and his Russian delegation that included Russian Foreign Minister, Sergey Lavrov.

The Deputy President expressed, on behalf of President Cyril Ramaphosa and the Republic of South Africa, utmost gratitude to President Putin and the Russian people for the role they played in supporting the anti-apartheid struggle and the socio-economic emancipation beyond the attainment of freedom and democracy.

"I have been tasked by the President to work tirelessly towards translation of the strong foundation of our strategic relations into higher trade and economic ties for the mutual benefit of our countries and our people," said Deputy President Mashatile.

Later in the programme, the Deputy President delivered remarks at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF’25) plenary session, following the remarks of H.E. President Vladimir Putin. The theme for the Deputy President’s main engagement of the visit, SPIEF’25, was: "Strengthening Multi-polarity for Sustainable Development", where the Deputy President highlighted that in its 28th year, the forum remained one of the foremost platforms for global dialogue on economic cooperation, investment, innovation, and inclusive growth.

Deputy President Mashatile said: "As we look to the future, the importance of the Global South in shaping international economic governance is undeniable. Africa, in particular, is fast becoming a centre of global growth. With a population projected to exceed 2.5 billion by 2050, a rising middle class, and a youthful demographic dividend, the continent has the potential to drive the next wave of industrialisation, digital transformation, and sustainable development. Africa is not in search of handouts; rather, it is pursuing equitable partnerships. It seeks equitable access to markets, capital, knowledge, and technology. This is where global platforms like SPIEF become crucial."

Other activities of the Deputy President included addressing the South African Trade and Investment Seminar at the SPIEF’25, attended by Russian and South African business and government leaders themed – “Russia - South Africa: Business and Investment Cooperation”; a meeting with Chairperson of the Federal Council of the Federal Assembly of the Russian Federation, Mrs Valentina Matvienko, where he welcomed the continued cooperation between the Russian Federal Assembly and the South African Parliament over the years.

“We are pleased to note that through regular Parliamentary exchanges and engagements, we have been able to address common challenges, explore new opportunities for collaboration, and deepen our friendship,” said the Deputy President.

The Deputy President also met with Chairman of the State Duma, Mr Vyacheslav Volodin and the bilateral discussion appreciated the continued cooperation between the Russian State Duma and the South African Parliament over the years as well as the importance of parliamentary diplomacy as a tool to amplify government efforts, foster dialogue and use legislative tools to unlock progress in trade and other areas.

Finally, the Deputy President concluded the Working Visit with a guided tour and site visit to the St. Petersburg Port, where he met with the leadership and workers of the Port. The site visit took place following work by officials from Russia and South Africa during the 18th Session of the Intergovernmental Committee on Trade and Economic Cooperation (ITEC), where the two countries concluded deliberations on cooperation in the maritime field and agreed to work with participants from the logistics industry and port authorities of both countries towards the mutually beneficial use of port infrastructure.

The Deputy President was accompanied by International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister Alvin Botes; Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina; Trade, Industry and Competition Minister Parks Tau; Agriculture Deputy Minister Nokuzola Capa; Public Works and Infrastructure Deputy Minister Sihle Zikalala; Mineral and Petroleum Resources Deputy Minister Phumzile Mgcina, as well as Sport, Arts and Culture Deputy Minister Peace Mabe.

Media enquiries: Mr Keith Khoza, Acting Spokesperson to the Deputy President, on 066 195 8840.

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

President Cyril Ramaphosa and the South African government have noted with a great deal of anxiety the entry by the United States of America into the Israel-Iran war.

It was South Africa’s sincerest hope that President Donald Trump would use his influence and that of the US government to prevail on the parties to pursue a dialogue path in resolving their issues of dispute. 

South Africa calls on the United States, Israel, and Iran to give the United Nations the opportunity and space to lead on the peaceful resolution of the matters of dispute, including the inspection and verification of Iran's status of uranium enrichment, as well as its broader nuclear capacity.

Media enquiries: Vincent Magwenya, Spokesperson to the President - media@presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Human Settlements Deputy Minister Tandi Mahambehlala, together with Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Nonceba Mhlauli, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs, Njabulo Nzuza, and Deputy Minister of COGTA, Zolile Burns-Ncamashe will be in the Eastern Cape to assess ongoing relief efforts, taking into account the plight of affected communities after the disastrous floods two weeks ago, that left many homes destroyed, and more than 90 people losing their lives.
 
The Deputy Ministers visit is part of government efforts to enhance the responses and measures that have been put in place to assist those affected by the floods that ravaged areas of Mthatha and Butterworth.
 
Government officials from Home Affairs, SASSA, Human Settlements Emergency Housing and Health have been on the ground since the floods occurred to assist affected communities.
 
Details are as follows:
Part A:
Venue: Mnquma Local Municipality
First Site Visit:
Home Affairs Mobile Service
(Town Hall)
Second Site Visit:
Theko Fihla Village
Time: 09:00 - 12:00

Part B:
Venue: KSD Local Municipality
First Site Visit:
Visit Flood Affected Site, Chris Hani, AA, Mthatha
Second site visit
Birth registration @ Slovo Anglican Church, Mthatha
Third Site Visit:
Temporary Residential Accommodation for Flood Victims @ Innoview Lodge
Time: 14:00 - 16:30

Media enquiries: Tsekiso Machike, Spokesperson to the Minister on 077 410 5050 / Tsekiso.machike@dhs.gov.za or 
Mandisa Mbele 0825802213/ MandisaM@Presidency.gov.za

Issued by: The Presidency
Pretoria

Your Excellency, President Vladimir Putin;

President of the Russian Federation;

Esteemed Heads of State and Government;

Distinguished Ministers and Deputy Ministers;

Diplomats and Delegates;

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I would like to begin by sending warm greetings from the Government of the Republic of South Africa, President Cyril Ramaphosa, and the people of South Africa.

This Forum, now in its 28th year, remains one of the foremost platforms for global dialogue on economic cooperation, investment, innovation, and inclusive growth.

It is therefore an honour to be given the opportunity to address this distinguished assembly at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum and convey our vision for a more inclusive, sustainable, and prosperous world.

The 2025 theme, "Strengthening Multipolarity for Sustainable Development," is not only timely but central to the moment we find ourselves in.

I would like to assume that you will concur with me that the concept of multipolarity has become increasingly relevant in the current global landscape, which is constantly changing. It calls for cooperation, dialogue, and respect for diversity among nations to achieve shared goals. 

The South African government is certain in its belief that the adoption of multipolarity may result in the achievement of sustainable development and economic prosperity for all nations, regardless of their size.

It is laudable that, as I stand here, I can confidently state that South Africa and Russia are committed to a multipolar world order and actively interact in forums such as BRICS and the G20.

Our cooperation covers various sectors, including trade, energy, and technology. Our aim should be about deepen bilateral connections and shaping global governance.

Russia has long played a strategic role in the global economy, not only as a major energy producer but also as a key actor in food security, industrial technologies, and science-based innovation.

It is one of the largest exporters of grain, oil, and gas. It is also a rising presence in sectors such as space exploration, nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, artificial intelligence, and advanced manufacturing.

Importantly, Russia's increasing orientation towards Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America is reshaping global trade routes and creating new corridors for commercial and developmental cooperation.

These reconfigurations are part of a broader trend: the steady emergence of a multipolar global economic architecture.

Despite the real challenges posed by geopolitical tensions, sanctions regimes, and fragmentation of financial systems, Russia has demonstrated resilience.

It continues to foster deep integration with the Eurasian Economic Union, expand its partnerships under the BRICS framework, and strengthen bilateral and multilateral engagements with emerging economies.

Our country, South Africa, like many others, has also faced numerous challenges on the path to development. The extent to which individuals feel connected and share a sense of belonging in society has also been a significant challenge, particularly in light of the country's history of apartheid and persistent socio-economic inequalities.

However, with tenacity, drive, and a commitment to diversity, we have achieved enormous strides in reducing poverty, inequality, and creating social cohesion.

We recognise that sustainable development is more than simply economic progress; it is also about providing opportunities for all our citizens to prosper and contribute to society.

As we look to the future, the importance of the Global South in shaping international economic governance is undeniable. Africa, in particular, is fast becoming a centre of global growth. With a population projected to exceed 2.5 billion by 2050, a rising middle class, and a youthful demographic dividend, the continent has the potential to drive the next wave of industrialisation, digital transformation, and sustainable development.

Africa is not in search of handouts; rather, it is pursuing equitable partnerships. It seeks equitable access to markets, capital, knowledge, and technology. This is where global platforms like SPIEF become crucial.

At the same time, the Global South is increasingly demanding a voice in decisions that shape global trade and finance.

The collective call is clear: development cannot be dictated; it must be co-created. Africa and the Global South are not merely passive recipients of investment or aid—they are active architects of a new, more just international order.

Ladies and gentlemen,

The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum has evolved over the years from a primarily Russian and Eurasian platform into a global meeting point for policymakers, economists, CEOs, innovators, and thought leaders. SPIEF provides a space for emerging economies to shape global economic discourse, influence trade rules, and negotiate developmental priorities.

In this regard, South Africa supports the increasing inclusion of voices from the Global South at SPIEF.

We support the growing participation of delegations from Africa, Latin America, and Asia. It is essential that this platform not only reflects but actively amplifies the aspirations and strategic interests of developing economies.

SPIEF’s value lies in its unique capacity to bridge geopolitical divides and promote dialogue beyond the dominant narratives. It enables countries with diverse histories, economies, and political systems to find common ground in promoting trade, innovation, and sustainable development. In an era of growing polarisation, SPIEF is a vital pillar of pragmatic cooperation.

South Africa is prepared to contribute to the promotion of cooperation and collaboration among nations in order to benefit all. We believe that a more equitable, prosperous, and tranquil world can be achieved through collaboration.

This year, South Africa has the privilege of presiding over the G20. We have prioritised issues like debt sustainability, global financial reform, access to technology, and inclusive economic recovery.

We are championing the representation of Africa in global decision-making structures, including the full integration of the African Union into the G20 framework.

We are also working to ensure that global economic policy aligns with the goals of Africa's Agenda 2063, the African Union's blueprint for inclusive growth and sustainable development. It promotes industrialisation, connectivity, regional integration, and the African Continental Free Trade Area. We offer a compelling value proposition to global investors and partners.

We are a gateway to Africa, rooted in democratic governance, a robust financial system, and world-class infrastructure. Our institutions are strong, our people are resilient, and our vision is clear—we aim to be a centre of innovation, inclusive industrialisation, and green growth.

Moreover, South Africa brings to the table decades of multilateral experience, a commitment to peacebuilding and development cooperation, and a bridge-building role between advanced and emerging economies. We do not merely seek partnerships—we offer solutions, grounded in African realities and global aspirations.

In doing so, South Africa hopes to cement G20 priorities in African reality, ensuring that the recovery from global crises does not exacerbate inequality but rather creates opportunities for inclusive transformation. We are pushing for a new international development funding agreement that resolves historical inequalities while also preparing the Global South to respond to future shocks with resilience.

Speaking of resilience, we need it to reinvigorate multilateralism.

The multilateral order is under pressure, and economic nationalism is on the rise. At the same time, we face collective challenges that require urgent cooperation: climate change, energy transitions, food insecurity, global health disparities, and digital inequality.

It is in this context that we must reaffirm the principles of mutual respect, sovereignty, equality, and solidarity. We must resist the return to protectionism and instead build a global trading system that is transparent, rules-based, and inclusive.

Developing economies must have greater representation in global standard-setting institutions. We must accelerate the reform of the World Trade Organisation, the International Monetary Fund, and other Bretton Woods institutions to reflect contemporary global realities.

Through the strengthening of multipolarity, we are able to harness the collective power of our nations to construct a future that is more sustainable for future generations. South Africa is prepared to do its share in promoting international cooperation and collaboration for the future of all nations. 

The future is not being written in boardrooms in the Global North alone. It is being written in the towns of East Africa, in the innovation corridors of Southeast Asia, in the mines and digital labs of Latin America, and the energy, agriculture, and science sectors of Eurasia. SPIEF is one of the few remaining global platforms where this future can be shaped in dialogue.

Let us then seize this moment.

Let us invest in partnerships that are equitable and mutually beneficial.

Let us pursue sustainable growth.

South Africa stands ready to work with all partners gathered here to forge a new era of cooperation, shared prosperity, and enduring peace.

I thank you.