Tánaiste Simon Harris has concluded his participation at the G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Johannesburg, where he emphasized the need for a renewed focus on inclusive economic growth and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Over two days, Harris engaged in a series of high-level bilateral meetings with counterparts from across the globe, discussing a wide range of global challenges.
Speaking at the final session of the meeting, Harris underlined the importance of ensuring economic growth is inclusive, especially amid global economic uncertainty. He also stressed the role of the G20 in shaping global financial governance. Harris noted the significance of Africa’s first G20 presidency, led by South Africa, and the opportunity it provides for Africa’s voice in global economic discussions.
“Ireland’s engagement at the G20 allows us to contribute to addressing global challenges,” Harris said. “Our priorities for 2025 will include global food security, innovation for inclusive growth, and climate financing, particularly focusing on the energy transition.”
Ireland’s commitment to the SDGs remains central to its global approach, with Harris calling for urgent action to realign efforts to meet these goals within the next five years. He reiterated the need to revitalise progress toward achieving the SDGs, which have veered off course.
Throughout the meeting, Harris held bilateral talks with Foreign Ministers, including the UK’s David Lammy, Brazil’s Mauro Vieira, Canada’s Mélanie Joly, and Japan’s Iwaya Takeshi, among others. These meetings provided an important platform for Ireland to reinforce its policies and values on the global stage.
The Tánaiste also highlighted Ireland’s strong support for South Africa’s efforts to reinvigorate the global drive for the SDGs. His participation in the G20 reaffirmed Ireland’s commitment to resolving global issues collaboratively, with an emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth.
Simon Harris Picture from FMT CC-BY-4.0
Source: gov.ie
