G20 Leaders Adopt Joint Declaration in Johannesburg Despite U.S. Opposition

Johannesburg: Leaders at the G20 Summit in South Africa adopted a joint declaration by consensus on November 22, 2025, overcoming objections raised by the United States. The document reaffirmed core principles of international law, peaceful global cooperation, and commitments to sustainable development.

Reaffirmation of Territorial Integrity and Peaceful Conduct

The declaration stated that all States must refrain from the threat or use of force to acquire territory. It stressed respect for the territorial integrity, sovereignty, and political independence of every State.
Leaders also underscored the importance of peaceful resolution of disputes in line with the UN Charter and international humanitarian law.

Commitment to Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms

The G20 called for fostering friendly relations among nations, with emphasis on respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms, irrespective of race, sex, language, or religion.

Focus on Disaster Resilience

Disaster resilience and coordinated response received special attention in the declaration, highlighting the growing global need for preparedness in the face of climate-related and natural disasters.

Welcome to G20 Critical Minerals Framework

Leaders welcomed the G20 Critical Minerals Framework, a voluntary and non-binding blueprint designed to ensure that global critical mineral resources fuel sustainable development and shared prosperity.

Push for Global Food Security

The declaration affirmed the fundamental right to be free from hunger. It stressed that greater political will is essential to make safe, healthy, and nutritious food more accessible and affordable worldwide.

G20 Social Summit Gains Appreciation

The leaders praised the G20 Social Summit, held on the sidelines of the main event in Johannesburg, for enabling non-government stakeholders to voice their perspectives on pressing global issues.

India’s Participation

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the summit hosted by President Cyril Ramaphosa, marking his 12th appearance at a G20 Leaders’ Summit.
Modi emphasised that meeting on African soil for the first time made it imperative to redefine global development frameworks to reduce inequalities and protect the environment.

Background: About the G20

Origins and Evolution

• Founded in 1999 after the Asian Financial Crisis as an informal forum of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors.
• Upgraded to a leaders-level forum in 2008–09 following the global economic crisis.

Membership

The G20 includes 19 countries and two regional bodies (EU and African Union):
Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Türkiye, United Kingdom, and United States.

Global Significance

• Represents 85% of global GDP
• Accounts for over 75% of world trade
• Represents about two-thirds of global population

Working Structure

The G20 does not have a permanent secretariat. Its Presidency rotates annually, shaping the agenda in consultation with members and responding to global economic developments.