World
The Global South at the G20
By Filipe Porto  ·  2024-11-27  ·   Source: NO.48 NOVEMBER 28, 2024
The Marangatu Solar Complex in the Brazilian state of Piaui on June 7. SPIC Brasil, a subsidiary of the State Power Investment Corp. of China, is a major investor in the project (XINHUA)

This year, the Group of 20 (G20) Summit took place in my home state of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on November 18-19. The world's attention was drawn not only to Rio's breathtaking landscapes, but also to the pressing challenges facing emerging economies. In this sense, the city's beauty provided a more pleasant backdrop for the tough decisions that will shape our future. From the towering Sugarloaf Mountain to the iconic Copacabana beaches, Rio set the stage for discussions that could redefine global cooperation.

For those of us in the Global South, which refers to countries with a relatively low level of economic and industrial development that are typically located to the south of more industrialized nations, the summit was more than just a diplomatic event. It was a rare occasion to amplify our voices in the creation of a more equitable international order.

A pivotal player in this effort was China, which has emerged as a major force in tackling issues such as economic inequality, climate change, and the digital divide—challenges that disproportionately affect developing nations.

Brazil's vision 

Under Brazil's presidency, the summit marked a big step forward in addressing global challenges, with leaders agreeing on the creation of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, launched with the confirmed participation of over 80 nations.

This historic commitment reaffirmed the role of the G20 as a platform for cooperation, focused on supporting developing countries and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals, i.e., 17 global objectives established by the United Nations in 2015 as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

"We gather in the birthplace of the Sustainable Development Agenda to reaffirm our commitment to building a just world and a sustainable planet, leaving no one behind," said the leaders' declaration issued at the close of the summit.

The summit stressed the world's urgent need for energy transitions and environmental action, proposed the taxation of major fortunes to finance necessary changes, and called for reform of global governance institutions.

Chinese President Xi Jinping's address at Session I of the summit, titled Building a Just World of Common Development, underscored the urgency of these issues and outlined a pragmatic vision for global governance that champions the aspirations of the Global South.

Rooted in inclusiveness 

Xi's address highlighted China's commitment to a type of global governance that concentrates on inclusiveness and development, particularly in bridging the gap between the Global North and South. His proposals were grounded in China's tangible efforts, including the Belt and Road Initiative, which has fostered connectivity through infrastructure projects in neglected regions, enabling economic growth in countries struggling to attract investment.

China's leadership in combating hunger and poverty, notably through its partnership with African nations and the new Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, reflects its dedication to development. Having eliminated extreme poverty at home as of late 2020, China continues to support agricultural and infrastructure development in Africa, furthering multilateral cooperation.

China's focus on climate finance aligns with its inclusive development philosophy. The $1.5 billion pledged to the Kunming Biodiversity Fund supports Global South nations in tackling biodiversity loss and investing in green economies.

Xi's call for cooperation and inclusiveness also extends to digital development. Through initiatives like the Digital Silk Road, China aims to provide affordable digital infrastructure to underserved regions, guaranteeing developing nations are part of the digital revolution. While some critics view these efforts as strategic, many in the Global South consider them lifelines for modernization.

China's approach to global governance, exemplified by the Global Development Initiative proposed by Xi in 2021, involves developing nations in shaping priorities, fostering mutual respect and pursuing shared prosperity.

Xi's vision for a more equitable world is reflected in actions that prioritize cooperation, sustainability and inclusiveness across the Global South.

A digital bridge 

As a citizen of the Global South, I am deeply concerned about the widening gap between technological advancements and the inability of many nations to keep up, risking further inequalities. In this context, China's efforts to promote digital inclusiveness stand out.

In his address at Session II of the summit, titled Working Together for a Fair and Equitable Global Governance System, Xi stressed that artificial intelligence (AI) should not be a "game of the rich countries and the wealthy," accentuating China's commitment to helping the Global South access scientific and technological innovations. This is reflected in initiatives like the Shanghai Declaration on AI Governance, issued at the 2024 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance in Shanghai in July, which promotes international cooperation and the equitable distribution of AI advancements.

China also leads in investments across Africa and Latin America, building essential infrastructure such as 5G networks and innovation hubs. These efforts are bridging the infrastructure gap and creating new opportunities. Additionally, China's research and development partnerships, particularly in renewable energy and AI, help develop local capacities and promote sustainable growth.

While China's initiatives provide invaluable support, developing nations must also pour efforts into building local capacities and ensure that these partnerships nurture sustainable, mutual benefits.

By leveraging the tools and knowledge made available through initiatives like the Shanghai Declaration, technological infrastructure investments and training programs, the Global South can take meaningful strides toward digital inclusiveness, all the while safeguarding its autonomy in the digital age.

A green pillar 

One of the most striking highlights of the Rio summit was its emphasis on green development. Xi reiterated China's commitment to deepening international cooperation in key areas such as sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy, green mining and eco-friendly transportation. This pledge aligns with a growing global consensus on the urgency of addressing climate change and fostering sustainable growth, particularly in developing nations.

China's actions in this sphere speak louder than words. For instance, in Pakistan, Chinese companies have played a pivotal role in the construction of large-scale solar power plants. These projects not only supply clean energy to thousands of households but also create jobs and stimulate local development. They exemplify how international collaboration in renewable energy can yield tangible benefits, both environmentally and economically.

Latin America, too, has seen China's green investments bear fruit. In Brazil, for example, Chinese companies have been instrumental in advancing sustainable railroads and eco-friendly public transportation projects. These initiatives not only reduce carbon footprints but also enhance mobility and infrastructure, supporting long-term economic growth.

A symbolic host

As this year's G20 summit, Rio de Janeiro's role as the host city highlighted its importance as a global stage for dialogue. A city of contrasts—where wealth and poverty coexist, and innovation and inequality collide—Rio embodies the broader realities of the Global South.

The city has long symbolized both challenge and opportunity, hosting pivotal events like the 1992 Earth Summit and the 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Summer Games. This summit reinforced its role in fostering international cooperation. Additionally, hosting the event emphasized Brazil's leadership and brought the struggles of developing nations to the forefront of global discussions. 

Discussions on hunger, technology and green development resonate deeply in cities like Rio, where the potential for transformation matches the scale of the challenges. For the Global South, Rio serves as a reminder that our struggles and successes are interconnected, and that global cooperation can build a better future for all.

The author is a Brazilian researcher of international relations based in Beijing  

Copyedited by Elsbeth van Paridon 

Comments to yanwei@cicgamericas.com 

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