Premier Li Qiang Addresses the 20th G20 Summit in Johannesburg

On November 22, 2025, Chinese Premier Li Qiang delivered a compelling address at the first session of the 20th G20 Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. This year’s summit marked a significant milestone as it was the first time the G20, comprising 19 countries and the European Union, convened on African soil. The overarching theme, "Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability," served to highlight the pressing need for cooperation among the world’s major economies to confront global challenges.

A Call for Solidarity and Cooperation

During his address, Premier Li emphasized the urgent need for G20 economies to unite in tackling worldwide issues, particularly in light of the economic recovery’s sluggishness. He pointed out the increasing tide of unilateralism and protectionism, accompanied by escalating trade restrictions that threaten the fragile state of global commerce. Li’s statement struck a decisive chord, urging member states to engage in a meaningful dialogue to navigate differences and rebuild a sense of cooperation.

Addressing Global Economic Challenges

Li highlighted recent shifts in global dynamics that are creating fissures in international cooperation. The fragmentation of the global economy has been exacerbated by diverging interests among nations and a pronounced lack of effective cooperative mechanisms. He argued that it was imperative for the G20 to confront these challenges head-on, advocating for constructive solutions that steer all nations back toward collaboration.

Li’s vision underscores the importance of mutual understanding, emphasizing the need to seek common ground while respecting individual nations’ distinctions. By advocating for equality in discussions and negotiations, Li seeks to bridge gaps and foster a more inclusive dialogue.

Upholding Multilateralism

One of the focal points of Premier Li’s message was the strong defense of multilateralism. He called for an urgent reform of global economic institutions like the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Trade Organization. Li argued that enhancing the voice of developing countries within these frameworks is crucial for establishing a fairer global economy. His comments reflect a growing sentiment that the current international economic order requires rejuvenation to adequately represent the interests of all nations, particularly those less developed.

Support for Developing Economies

Li also announced significant initiatives aimed at bolstering economic frameworks for Africa and other least developed countries. He outlined China’s commitment to the G20 Initiative on Supporting Industrialization in Africa, pointing to specific collaboration projects launched in conjunction with South Africa. The emphasis on debt reduction for developing nations reflects a crucial acknowledgment of the challenges they face, further illuminating China’s strategic intention to foster deeper economic ties and support modernization efforts across the continent.

Commitment to Sustainable Development

In a world increasingly defined by environmental changes, Li advocated for enhanced cooperation in ecological and environmental protection, particularly in green energy and food security. His insistence on addressing these topics signifies a broader recognition of sustainability as an essential pillar of economic development. By integrating environmental considerations into the growth discourse, Li is charting a forward-thinking path that aligns economic objectives with ecological responsibilities.

The Importance of Technological Governance

As the summit progressed, Li addressed potential disruptions resulting from rapid technological advancements. He discussed the importance of governing emerging technologies like artificial intelligence responsibly, stressing that while these innovations present opportunities, they can also widen existing inequalities. By promoting ethical standards and collaborative frameworks for technology utilization, Li seeks to ensure that the benefits of these advancements reach all corners of the global community.

Engaging With Global Leaders

The summit also provided Premier Li with a platform to engage with global leaders. Notably, he met with Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and discussed the importance of fostering a conducive business environment for mutual investments. These dialogues are pivotal for reinforcing trade relations and collaborative initiatives among G20 nations.

Li’s engagement with other international dignitaries, including French President Emmanuel Macron, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, and World Trade Organization Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, underscored China’s commitment to enhancing diplomatic ties and collaborating on multilateral fronts.

Conclusion and Forward Outlook

The discussions at the G20 Summit, particularly those led by Premier Li Qiang, illustrate a proactive approach to tackling the manifold challenges facing the global community today. With an emphasis on solidarity, multilateralism, and sustainable development, the summit set a forward-looking agenda that seeks to unite nations in their shared ambitions for a more equitable and resilient world economy. The conversations initiated in Johannesburg are not merely about immediate economic strategies but are also about laying the groundwork for future collaborations that will define the international landscape in the years to come.