President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa emphasized the nation's commitment to bolstering the integrity and significance of the G20 during his opening remarks at the summit in Johannesburg. This summit, taking place on November 22 and 23, 2025, marks the first occasion the G20 leaders have convened on African soil. Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa's dedication to ensuring that the development needs and concerns of the Global South and the African continent are adequately represented in the G20's agenda.

In attendance are leaders from the world's top economies, gathered with the aim of addressing some of the pressing issues facing the global community. The absence of U.S. President Donald Trump has drawn attention to the dynamics within the group and the potential implications for international cooperation.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spoke on the vital role of the G20, urging the nations to leverage their collective power to alleviate global suffering and foster a path toward peace. He pointed out the immediate challenges confronting the world, such as ongoing conflicts, climate change, economic instability, and rising inequality. Guterres called for bold leadership and a unified vision to tackle these challenges, emphasizing the necessity of the G20's proactive approach in steering the global agenda. The summit presents a pivotal opportunity for leaders to collaborate and craft solutions aimed not just at their national interests but also at addressing the broader issues impacting the world.