Translation. Region: Russian Federation –
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
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November 21, 2025 UN
Speaking to reporters in Johannesburg on the sidelines of the G20 summit, UN Secretary-General António Guterres said world powers have a special responsibility to help countries facing the grave consequences of conflict, climate crisis and economic instability.
The Secretary General noted that the world is going through a period of “troubled times,” where “conflicts, climate chaos, economic uncertainty, growing debts"Inequality, inequality, and declining international aid" are leading to dire consequences for millions of people. At the same time, he notes, the sharp rise in global military spending is draining resources needed for development.
He emphasized that the G20, which comprises the world's largest economies, can help alleviate human suffering and ensure a more peaceful and sustainable future. The summit's theme, "Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability," reflects the global goals.
Economic reforms: "Africa must have a seat at every table"
Guterres paid special attention to issues of global economic governance. According to him, many developing countries, especially in Africa, continue to face declining funding, rising debt and an unfair global system.
"Africa has become a doubly victim of colonialism," the UN chief said, recalling that when international institutions were founded, most African countries were still colonies and absent from the negotiating table. Today, the Secretary-General noted, the continent remains "grossly underrepresented" in global structures.
The G20 summit is being held in Africa for the first time.
Guterres called on the G20 to help correct this “historical injustice” and support reform of international financial institutions in accordance with Pact for the Future.
“Too many developing countries – particularly in Africa – are left at the bottom of global value chains or excluded from trade altogether,” he added.
Consequences of the climate crisis
Commenting progress of negotiations At the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30), the Secretary-General warned that the world must take a much more proactive approach to combating climate change. "Countries have failed to keep global warming below 1.5 degrees. Science tells us that temporarily exceeding that limit is now inevitable," he said.
To limit the risks, it is necessary to urgently eliminate adaptation funding gap to climate change. Guterres called on developed countries to increase adaptation funding to "at least $40 billion this year,"fulfill an obligation to provide $300 billion per year by 2035 and mobilize $1.3 trillion annually for developing countries under the Baku-Belém plan.
He stressed the need to replenish the Fund to compensate for losses and damages, as well as to accelerate the global transition to renewable energy.
"Africa must be at the centre of the energy revolution: the continent has enormous solar and wind potential, but lacks the investment needed to realise it," he said.
Put an end to conflicts
The Secretary-General also called for an end to violence in a number of conflict zones.
So, he called for an immediate end fighting in Sudan, stopping arms supplies, ensuring prompt access to humanitarian aid and negotiations between the parties to the conflict.
In addition, Guterres emphasized the need to resolve the conflict in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the terms of which would “respect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the country” and eliminate the root causes of instability.
He expressed "deep concern" about the situation in Mali and the entire Sahel region, calling on countries to unite to ensure stability, peace and security.
The Secretary General also reiterated his position on the need for peace.for Ukraine"in accordance with the UN Charter, international law and General Assembly resolutions."
The UN chief reiterated his call for the Gaza ceasefire to be implemented. cessation of violations and the creation of a “political path to ending the occupation” that will enable the Palestinian people to realize their right to self-determination and achieve a two-state solution.
“And everywhere – from Haiti to Yemen, Myanmar and beyond – we must choose a peace based on international law,” he stressed.
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