In a recent statement following the two-day 2025 G20 Summit in Cape Town, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney highlighted a landmark moment for the global economy. With the United States notably absent from the talks
—and set to assume the G20 presidency next year—Carney argued that “the center of gravity in the global economy is shifting.”
Held in South Africa from November 22 to 23, the summit drew robust attendance from leaders across the Global South. Delegations from Africa, Asia and Latin America showed up in force, underlining a growing confidence among emerging markets to shape international policy debates. Despite the missing U.S. delegation, discussions forged ahead on issues ranging from digital trade to sustainable infrastructure and climate finance—areas where Global South nations have been pushing for greater influence.
Carney’s comments come amid a backdrop of changing economic dynamics: developing economies are increasingly charting their own course, leveraging tech innovation, youth entrepreneurship and regional partnerships. At the same time, the absence of the U.S. raised questions about how the next G20 host will address these emerging priorities when it steps into the presidency in 2026.
For young global citizens, entrepreneurs and changemakers watching closely, this shift signals fresh opportunities. As African startups attract record investment and Latin American nations push digital reforms, the Global South is carving out new leadership roles on the world stage. The challenge now lies in how established powers, including the incoming U.S. presidency, will engage with this rising bloc and forge partnerships that reflect a more diverse economic order.
Whatever the future holds, the 2025 G20 Summit in South Africa will be remembered as a turning point—one where the absence of a traditional heavyweight underscored the rising clout of the Global South.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
