PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA welcomes world leaders to Africa's first-ever G20 Summit, saying it carries hope and must reflect the dreams of not only the continent, but the world.
The Summit, held at Nasrec Expo Centre in the south of Joburg, is the first on African soil.
Ramaphosa told the leaders that South Africa chose the theme 'Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability' for its G20 Presidency.
"It's an honour and a privilege to welcome you all to the first G20 Leaders' Summit to be held on African soil," he said.
Ramaphosa said as they opened the Summit on Saturday, 22 November, South Africa is aware of the huge responsibility that membership of the community of nations places upon the leaders.
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He said Mzansi also understands the responsibility of being trusted with the Presidency of the G20.
"The talks of the G20 have an impact on the lives of all members of the global community. Through solidarity, we can create an inclusive future that advances the interests of people around the world who are at the greatest risk of being left behind," said Ramaphosa.
He stressed that by promoting equality, they strive to ensure fair treatment and equal opportunities for all individuals and nations.
He pointed out that threats facing humanity today - from rising tensions between countries, global warming, pandemics, energy and food shortages to inequality, unemployment, extreme poverty and armed conflict - threaten the world's shared future.
"We have agreed that it's essential for the global community, international financial institutions, development banks and the private sector, to scale up post-disaster reconstruction," he said.
Ramaphosa urged world leaders that they must continue the reform of the international financial system, ensuring that institutions are strengthened, are more inclusive and are equipped to meet the challenges both of the present and the future.
