Minister D George: Welcoming remarks at the Ocean20 Side Event – G20 South Africa Presidency

09 June 2025

Good afternoon,

Distinguished guests, representatives of international and multilateral organisations, esteemed colleagues, and all participants joining us today—

Welcome to this important Ocean20 side event, convened under South Africa’s G20 Presidency. This marks a historic milestone—not only for our nation, but for the African continent—as we host the G20 for the very first time under the banner of Equity, Sustainability, and Solidarity.

In that spirit, we are pleased to carry forward the momentum built under Brazil’s G20 Presidency, and to continue the work of the Ocean20 Social Engagement Group. The initiative stands as a powerful example of how G20 processes can inspire inclusive dialogue, shared responsibility, and collective action across sectors and borders.

This year’s Ocean20 theme, Uniting for Inclusive and Sustainable Ocean Development: Advancing Cooperative Innovation and Partnerships, reflects our belief that the ocean must remain central to our global response to development and climate complexities. It is a shared space—one that connects us all, and one in which the solutions we craft must be equally shared and equitably implemented.

South Africa’s relationship with the ocean is both profound and practical. Bordered by three great ocean basins—the Atlantic, Indian and Southern Oceans—our country is shaped by dynamic boundary current systems that influence our climate, support rich marine biodiversity, and underpin the food and economic security of millions. These waters are not only ecological treasures; they also hold immense opportunity to catalyse a more just and sustainable blue economy.

We are especially proud that institutions such as the South African Environmental Observation Network —through strong collaboration with Brazil’s National Institute for Ocean Research and now alongside the United Nations Global Compact and the G20 Troika—are helping to shape the next phase of Ocean20. The focus on legacy action and partnerships is essential. We cannot afford symbolic gestures; we need enduring action.

Through this event, we look forward to identifying the key actions that will take the Ocean20 Communiqué forward and position ocean priorities more prominently within the global multilateral agenda. We are especially keen to ensure that the voices and leadership of the Global South—particularly those from Africa—are instrumental in shaping the path ahead.

Thank you for being here and for contributing your time, expertise and passion to this collective endeavour.

For media enquiries please contact:

Thobile Zulu-Molobi
Mobile: +27 82 513 7154 
E-mail: tmolobi@dffe.gov.za

Chelsey Wilken
Mobile:+27 74 470 5996 
E-mail: cwilken@dffe.gov.za