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Uganda leads G77+, aims for Global North-South reforms
Uganda assumed the chairmanship of the Group of 77 plus China, the largest negotiating bloc of developing countries in the United Nations, with a focus on pushing for reforms to bridge the gap between the global north and south.
President of Uganda, Yoweri Museveni assumed the position from Cuba's Vice President Salvador Valdes at the 3rd South Summit of the G77+ China Heads of State and Government on January 21, at Speke Resort Munyonyo in Kampala.
The G77 + China summit, hosted by Uganda on January 21-22, marked the first time the event was held in Africa, operating under the theme 'Leaving No One Behind.'
In his inaugural address to Heads of State and Delegations, Museveni reiterated Uganda's commitment to the 'leave no one behind' pledge in his. He expressed gratitude to members for entrusting Uganda with the leadership, affirming the group's commitment to seeking a revitalised multilateral system capable of effectively addressing current and emerging global challenges.
“Uganda’s Chairmanship will strive to promote further: acceleration of the implementation of the 2030 Agenda; scaling up action to address climate change and biodiversity loss; strengthening international tax cooperation; financing for development; fight against illicit financial flows and strengthening digital cooperation, among others,” said Museveni in a statement.
President Museveni further urged the G77 to maintain unity in their demand to the international community to assist developing nations in promptly tackling global challenges such as poverty, hunger, the digital divide, and climate change.
“Currently, the population of G77 and China represent 80% of the global population. In addition, its GDP accounts for more than 40% of the global GDP. This shows that, despite the challenges, the group has registered progress in defending and promoting the interests of developing countries,” he added.
Cuba's Vice President, Salvador Valdes Mesa, praised President Museveni as a proponent of peace in Africa and globally. The Latin American assured total support from Cuba for Museveni's leadership of the G77+China.
The G77+ was established 59 years ago with 77 initial member countries, the G77 expanded to 134 nations, emerging as the largest inter-governmental UN organization with the mission of promoting the collective economic interests of its members. While China is not fully a member, it holds an observer status hence the tag 'G77 + China’.
