Saudi Arabia Highlights Sustainable Development At G20 Development Ministerial Meeting In South Africa

The Ministry of Economy and Planning represented Saudi Arabia at the G20 Development Ministerial Meeting on July 24–25, hosted by South Africa. Rakan Tarabzoni, Deputy Minister for International Economic Affairs, attended on behalf of the Minister of Economy and Planning. He engaged in various G20 activities, including Development Working Group (DWG) sessions and bilateral meetings with senior officials from G20 nations and international organizations.

Saudi Arabia's address at the meeting underscored the significance of the food-water-energy nexus as a crucial element of social protection. The Kingdom also stressed the need to enhance domestic resource mobilization and tackle illicit financial flows. These efforts are vital for supporting sustainable development and achieving inclusive economic growth, ensuring a prosperous future for all.

In 2024, during Brazil's presidency of the G20 Development Ministerial Meeting, Faisal Alibrahim, Minister of Economy and Planning, participated in launching the Task Force for a Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty. This initiative by the G20 Brazilian Presidency aims to speed up global efforts to eradicate poverty and hunger.

The DWG was established in 2010 to set the G20's agenda for development and poverty reduction. It focuses on engaging with developing countries, particularly low-income nations. Since 2016, it has been the main forum for all G20 actions toward sustainable development through the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Saudi Arabia has been committed to this agenda since its inception in 2015. The Kingdom continues to play an active role in promoting sustainable development goals globally through its participation in such international forums.

The DWG prioritizes collaboration with developing countries to address their unique challenges. By focusing on these partnerships, it aims to foster progress toward achieving sustainable development goals worldwide.

Saudi Arabia's involvement in these initiatives highlights its dedication to addressing global issues like poverty and hunger while promoting economic growth and sustainability. Through active participation in international forums like the G20, Saudi Arabia seeks to contribute positively to global development efforts.

With inputs from SPA