African Union Hails South Africa’s Historic G20 Presidency

Addis Ababa, Ethiopia – November 10, 2025

The African Union Commission (AUC) has extended warm congratulations to the Republic of South Africa as it assumes the rotating presidency of the Group of Twenty (G20), marking the first time the prestigious global forum will be hosted on African soil.

In a statement issued on Monday, the AUC praised South Africa’s growing stature in global governance and its steadfast advocacy for the priorities and perspectives of the Global South.
“As current G20 Chair, South Africa has demonstrated exceptional leadership in advancing sustainable development and inclusive global governance,” the Commission said.

The AUC commended South Africa’s strong democratic foundations, rooted in a Constitution that enshrines equality, human rights, and the rule of law—principles the Commission described as “fully aligned with the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.”
Highlighting South Africa’s rich diversity, the AU noted that citizens of various races, cultures, languages, and faiths coexist in harmony, turning inclusivity into “a source of national strength and global admiration.”

The Commission called on the international community to engage with South Africa and the broader African continent based on mutual respect and genuine partnership. It underscored that such collaboration would reinforce Africa’s vital role in shaping global peace, sustainable development, and shared prosperity.

South Africa’s assumption of the G20 presidency marks a significant milestone in the continent’s growing influence on the world stage, as it prepares to host the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit—an event expected to spotlight African priorities in global economic reform and equitable growth.