G77: Global South urged to increase cooperation, collaboration

COUNTRIES in the global South should harness their numerical superiority to ensure their interests and aspirations are addressed for the betterment of their peoples’ livelihoods, President Mnangagwa has said.

In a speech read on his behalf by Zimbabwe’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Albert Chimbindi at the G77 plus China summit here, President Mnangagwa said there is need for the global South to leverage on its diversity and geographical reach through increased cooperation and collaboration.

This, he said, would see the eradication of poverty, the fostering of peace and the addressing of climate change-induced phenomena such as droughts.

“Let us leave this Summit with a renewed commitment to our shared vision of a just and equitable world, where there is shared prosperity, peace, security and positive transformation to lives and livelihoods of those furthest behind.

“Let us stand united in pushing for tangible action that ensures that the interests of the global South are not only acknowledged, but prioritised.

“We have to make our numerical superiority, our unity in diversity, and our expansive geographical reach, count. Through increased cooperation and collaboration, we will be able to combat poverty, address climate change and foster peace and stability,” he said.

President Mnangagwa said Zimbabwe was committed to partnering other countries in the global South to ensure inclusive and equitable development that leaves no country behind.

He said platforms such as the G77 plus China provide an opportunity for brainstorming and weaving solutions on a plethora of global issues.

“Zimbabwe has a very keen interest in matters concerning the global South. We recognise the pivotal role of the G77 and China in providing a platform to collectively attend to social and economic issues, leading to transnational commitments that address pressing challenges.

“I wish, by way of illustration, to recall that my country hosted the 20th International Inter-Ministerial Conference on South-South and Triangular Cooperation in Population and Development in October 2023. The conference, successfully set the stage for discussions on the post-International Conference on Population and Development 2030 (ICPD 30) agenda, linking ICPD issues and global trends.

“Zimbabwe is fully committed to the ideals of the G77 and China and is ready to partner with other countries of the South in our shared endeavour for inclusive and equitable development. ◆ Full story on www.herald.co.zw