Mashatile Urges Global Unity During G20 Presidency Lecture at Russian University

Deputy President Paul Mashatile has called for a renewed global commitment to solidarity, sustainability, and inclusive growth amid a world increasingly fragmented by geopolitical conflict, economic inequality, and environmental catastrophe. Speaking during a high-profile public lecture at St. Petersburg State University, Mashatile laid out South Africa’s vision for its G20 Presidency, rooted in global collaboration and the African philosophy of Ubuntu.

Mashatile is currently on a working visit to the Russian Federation to bolster economic and scientific ties, as South Africa assumes a pivotal leadership role on the international stage as Chair of the Group of 20 (G20) for 2025.

G20 Presidency: A Platform for Global Inclusion

The Deputy President used the lecture platform to spotlight South Africa’s overarching theme for its G20 tenure: “Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability.” This theme, he explained, underscores the nation’s commitment to a more inclusive, just, and cooperative global community.

“As we gather here today, amidst the tumultuous global crises characterised by rising geopolitical tensions, trade wars, unemployment, inequality, poverty, armed conflicts, and climate catastrophe, it has become very clear that the world needs solidarity now more than ever,” Mashatile told the audience.

The G20, he emphasized, must rise to the occasion and serve as a driver of collective problem-solving, especially for the Global South, where many countries remain vulnerable to debt distress, underdevelopment, and the adverse effects of climate change.

Strengthening South Africa–Russia Ties

The Deputy President’s visit is focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation between South Africa and Russia, particularly in the areas of agriculture, energy, automotive industries, mining, and technology. Both countries are BRICS members and have historically shared political solidarity, especially during South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle.

Mashatile acknowledged this relationship by recalling Russia’s historic support, and noted that the current engagement is not just political, but strategic for future global cooperation.

The Role of Knowledge Economies and Academia

Mashatile emphasized the importance of knowledge economies in tackling contemporary global challenges. He praised St. Petersburg State University—a revered institution known for producing global figures such as President Vladimir Putin and Vladimir Lenin—as a key potential partner in furthering innovation and international academic exchange.

“Our future lies in knowledge economies, and your institution is a natural partner in this effort,” he said.

He lauded the university’s Faculty of International Relations and Institute for African Studies for their collaborative efforts with African scholars and invited deeper partnerships with leading South African institutions, pledging mutual benefit in knowledge transfer, joint research, and capacity-building initiatives.

G20 Priorities Under South Africa’s Leadership

The Deputy President announced four key priorities that South Africa’s G20 Presidency will champion:

1. Debt Sustainability for Low-Income Countries Advocating for global financial frameworks that enable fiscal stability and equitable access to development financing for vulnerable economies.

2. Mobilising Climate Financing for a Just Energy Transition Ensuring that the shift to green energy is inclusive, particularly in resource-dependent African countries, by facilitating capital for clean technologies and energy equity.

3. Enhancing Disaster Resilience and Response Promoting systems and resources for rapid disaster recovery and climate adaptation, especially in the face of increasing weather-related disruptions.

4. Leveraging Critical Minerals for Inclusive Growth Encouraging responsible extraction and processing of critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements to support both local development and global green industries.

These priorities, he said, align with the broader mission to accelerate the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) under the 2030 Agenda and to reshape global systems that have historically disadvantaged developing countries.

Global South Leadership and Ubuntu Diplomacy

Mashatile’s speech also introduced what he called “Ubuntu diplomacy”—a values-driven, human-centered approach to international relations.

“Only through exercising solidarity and identifying with each other’s struggles can we do justice to the notion of international community,” he said. “Our presidency aims to capitalise on the prospects of globalisation while limiting its risks and ensuring that the benefits of economic progress and technological advancement are shared by all.”

He called on G20 nations to set aside divisions, reaffirm multilateralism, and forge practical cooperation, particularly in areas such as technology innovation, education, and sustainable industrialisation.

Leading with Moral Authority

As South Africa navigates its first G20 Presidency, Deputy President Mashatile’s message from the historic halls of St. Petersburg State University sets the tone for a tenure defined by moral leadership, inclusive dialogue, and global solidarity.

“Despite the prevailing geopolitical environment, South Africa remains steadfast in its commitment to promoting global cooperation and inclusive development,” he concluded. “With our G20 Presidency, we possess a unique opportunity to influence global discourse on critical issues.”