Indonesian Foreign Minister: G20 to become driving force that restores trust in multilateral system

During the UN General Assembly High-Level Week, a meeting of Foreign Ministers of the Group of Twenty (G20) was held. It was attended by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, President of South Africa Cyril Ramaphosa and the country’s Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola, Brazil’s Foreign Minister Mauro Vieira, and India’s External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. The Foreign Minister of Indonesia, Sugiono, and Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister, Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, also delivered speeches. The meeting was attended by the heads of foreign ministries of other countries as well.

The foundation for the progressive development of all states, according to the ministers, remains respect for international law. This point was emphasised in his speech by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

"Reliance on the principles enshrined in the UN Charter in their entirety, comprehensiveness and interconnection is the key to the peaceful, progressive development of all states without exception"

Sergey Lavrov Russian Foreign Minister

The discussion of the future world order was linked to the assessment of the growing role of new centres of economic growth and global governance. The Russian Foreign Minister noted that “the importance of such global governance structures as BRICS and the SCO is evidence of the emergence of a multipolar world and an example of equal diplomacy.”

The overall necessity for joint action to respond to modern challenges was outlined by Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, the G20 Chairman country in 2025. He stressed that the philosophy of the chairmanship is based on the principles of partnership. A specific area of work identified was the reform of the financial system, designed to ensure fair conditions for all countries.

“This is driven by our conviction that global challenges can only be resolved through cooperation, collaboration, and partnership. [...] To respond to these issues, we need meaningful reforms of the international financial architecture. We must increase grant and concessional financing and enhance multilateral coordination,” added the South African leader. His words are quoted on the official website of the Government of South Africa.

The importance of strengthening international cooperation was emphasised in his speech by South Africa’s Foreign Minister, Ronald Lamola.

"For societies, livelihoods and economies to thrive, the shifting global dynamics must be met with more and not less global cooperation"

Ronald Lamola South Africa’s Foreign Minister

This point was supported by Indonesia’s Foreign Minister, Sugiono, who highlighted the key role of the G20 in strengthening multilateral mechanisms.

“The G20 must become the driving force that restores trust in the multilateral system and ensures development for all,” urged the Indonesian diplomat.

Participants in the discussion agreed on the need to seize new opportunities for economic growth. Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud expressed confidence in the potential of current trends.

“Digital transformation and the green economy open up prospects for building more sustainable economic models and engaging all segments of society in them,” he stated.

The participants expressed hope that the upcoming G20 Leaders Summit in Johannesburg (21–22 November 2025) will give fresh impetus to international partnership.

Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia