Ramaphosa arrives in New York ahead of UNGA80
President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived in New York to lead South Africa’s delegation at the High-Level Segment of the United Nations General Assembly.
The sitting, expected to run from Tuesday until next Monday, coincides with the 80th anniversary of the UN Charter.
President Ramaphosa will address the General Debate on Tuesday, championing multilateralism, peaceful conflict resolution, and human rights.
"As chair of the G20, South Africa brings the voice of the Global South to the world stage, we will continue to advocate for fairness, equity, and cooperation in tackling global challenges that affect developing countries the most," said the Presidency’s spokesperson, Vincent Magwenya.
The President is expected to engage on pressing international issues, including the ongoing genocide in Gaza, conflicts in Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the war in Ukraine.
"South Africa will continue to act as a bridge-builder, advocating dialogue over discord," Magwenya said.
On Wednesday, he will participate in the Biennial Summit for a Sustainable, Inclusive, and Resilient Global Economy, convened by UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
"Global challenges require global solutions, South Africa will push for stronger international cooperation to mobilize resources and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly for the most vulnerable nations."
As Chair of the Global Leaders Network on Women’s, Children’s and Adolescents’ Health, the President will convene a high-level meeting on recommitting to health and rights for these groups.
“Investing in the health and well-being of women, children, and adolescents is not only a moral obligation, but a foundation for peace, security, and sustainable development,” Ramaphosa said.
He will also participate in a Special High-Level Event on Climate Action, co-chaired by Secretary-General Guterres and Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, aimed at accelerating global mitigation, adaptation, and climate finance initiatives.
In parallel, Ramaphosa will engage the private sector during the Trade and Investment Executive Dialogue, hosted by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition in collaboration with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
"Strengthening trade and investment ties with the United States is critical for South Africa’s economic growth and job creation," Magwenya said.
On Thursday, President Ramaphosa will lead the high-level opening segment of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, reinforcing South Africa’s role in promoting global economic prosperity and lasting peace.
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