United Nations secretary-general António Guterres has called on the Group of Twenty (G20) countries to take the lead in delivering climate justice and advancing technological progress.
Speaking at the closing session of the Joint Sherpa-Finance and Central Banks Deputies’ Meeting in Johannesburg on Wednesday, Guterres emphasised the urgent need for developed nations to support vulnerable countries in addressing climate change.
“G20 countries must lead the way in line with the principles of common but differentiated responsibilities but recognise that every G20 country has to do more in the reduction of emissions,” the UN chief said.
He announced that starting in 2025, “every government must deliver new economic plans in line with limiting the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees.”
“These new plans must cover all emissions in the whole economy, accelerate a just fossil fuel phase out and contribute to the energy transition goals agreed to at COP28.”
Guterres noted that many developing nations are forced to respond to a climate crisis they did not create and lack the necessary resources to benefit from clean energy and eliminate poverty.
He urged developed countries to provide adequate, affordable and accessible finance and technology to support these nations.
“We must also ensure that Africa’s critical minerals that can power the renewable future worldwide benefit Africans first and most. We cannot repeat the mistakes of the past,” he said.
He called for meaningful contributions by developed nations to the loss and damage fund and the doubling of adaptation finance next year as promised.
In addition to climate justice, Guterres called on the G20 to lead in technological justice, ensuring that developing countries can access and benefit from the technological revolution.
He urged the G20 to support these nations in investing in digital-driven systems and solutions to boost prosperity, create jobs, and drive sustainable development.
South Africa assumed the Presidency of the G20 on December 1, marking the first African presidency and the fourth consecutive emerging market presidency.
The G20, established to address pressing global economic and financial issues, comprises 19 countries and two regional bodies, the European Union and the African Union.
JN/APA