Author: admin

Steve Harvey Visits Rwanda

Renowned American comedian, television host, actor, writer, and producer Steve Harvey is in Rwanda for a private visit.

Reports of Harvey’s visit emerged on Tuesday after he was seen at the Kigali Genocide Memorial in Gisozi, where he paid his respects to the victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

Renowned American comedian, television host, actor, writer, and producer Steve Harvey is in Rwanda for a private visit.

On Wednesday, Harvey confirmed on his popular Steve Harvey TV Instagram account that he was in Kigali and had met President Paul Kagame. The TV star praised Kagame’s strength, humility, and Rwanda’s remarkable journey of resilience and forgiveness.

“We had the pleasure of sitting and meeting His Excellency, my brother, President Paul Kagame. I was truly inspired by his strength and humility—a testament to Rwanda’s resilience and acts of forgiveness,” he wrote.

According to a statement from the Office of the President, their discussions focused on potential areas of investment and partnership in various sectors including events and entertainment.

During his visit, Harvey is expected to explore various parts of the country, including a trek to see mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park in the Northern Province. He is also set to meet several prominent figures in Rwanda.

Charges Dropped in Olga Kayirangwa’s Death Case

Two men detained over the mysterious death of Olga Kayirangwa have been released due to insufficient evidence, the judiciary confirmed on November 19, 2024.

Kayirangwa, 25, died on September 26 after visiting Nasagambe’s home in Kigali.

Judiciary spokesperson Harrison Mutabazi stated that prosecutors had withdrawn the case against Fred Nasagambe and Gideon Gatare, halting criminal proceedings.

Kayirangwa, 25, passed away on September 26 after visiting Nasagambe’s home in Kigali. While the prosecution initially claimed she died there, the suspects argued she passed away at DMC Hospital following a medical emergency. Nasagambe said Kayirangwa collapsed in his bedroom after using the bathroom, prompting him to call Gatare, a pharmacist, for assistance.

The suspects had been in custody since October, following a 30-day remand order by Kicukiro Primary Court. Their release request had been denied on November 18, citing additional evidence, including testimony from a domestic worker who alleged that Kayirangwa appeared lifeless on a bed.

On November 19, prosecutors sought their release, citing insufficient grounds for prosecution. Article 91 of Rwanda’s criminal procedure law allows releases when no basis for prosecution exists. The court granted the request, officially freeing the two men.

Date Set for Carmen Nibigira’s Burial

Carmen Nibigira, a prominent figure in East Africa’s tourism and hospitality sector, will be laid to rest on November 24, 2024.

Nibigira passed away in Kenya on November 16, 2024, following a short illness.

A funeral mass will be held at Centre Christus in Kigali at 2:00 p.m., followed by burial at Rusororo Cemetery at 4:00 p.m.

Born in Burundi in 1978, Nibigira dedicated more than 24 years to advancing the hotel and tourism industry. At the time of her passing, she was the Lead for Tourism and Hospitality Management within the Mastercard Foundation’s Rwanda Programs team.

Kizza Besigye Reported Missing in Nairobi

Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye has been reported missing after attending the book launch of former Justice Minister-turned-politician Martha Karua in Nairobi, Kenya, on November 16, 2024.

Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, disclosed on Tuesday night that she had learned her husband was being held at a military jail in Kampala, Uganda.

Ugandan opposition politician Kizza Besigye is missing after attending the book launch of former Justice Minister-turned-politician Martha Karua in Nairobi, Kenya, on Saturday, November 16, 2024.

Byanyima, the Executive Director of UNAIDS, condemned his alleged detention and demanded his immediate release.

'I request the government of Uganda to release my husband, Dr. Kizza Besigye, from where he is being held immediately. He was kidnapped last Saturday while attending Hon. Martha Karua’s book launch in Nairobi. I am now reliably informed that he is in a military jail in Kampala,' she posted on X.

She added, 'We, his family and his lawyers, demand to see him. He is not a soldier. Why is he being held in a military jail?'

The motive behind Besigye’s alleged abduction and detention remains unclear.

Zelensky Rules Out Elections Again

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has reiterated that elections will not occur until a “just peace” is achieved.

Speaking in parliament on November 19, 2024, while presenting his Internal Resilience Plan, Zelensky stressed that the Constitution prohibits elections during wartime. He dismissed calls for polls as detrimental to national unity and urged prioritizing Ukraine’s collective interests over political ambitions.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a past function.

Zelensky’s term expired in March 2024 but was extended due to martial law imposed in 2022.

The war in Ukraine began on February 24, 2022, when Russia launched a large-scale invasion. Tensions between the two nations had escalated for years, particularly after Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its support of separatists in Eastern Ukraine.

Trump Picks WWE Co-Founder for Education Role

United States President-elect Donald Trump has nominated Linda McMahon, co-founder of WWE and his former transition co-chair, as education secretary.

Trump praised McMahon’s leadership experience, emphasizing her potential to shape the next generation of American students and workers.

McMahon, a trusted ally, previously led the Small Business Administration during Trump’s first presidency and has been a significant donor to his campaigns.

Announcing the decision on Truth Social, Trump praised McMahon’s leadership experience, emphasizing her potential to shape the next generation of American students and workers.

This nomination follows Trump’s recent selection of Mehmet Oz to head the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

IGIHE

This small but ecologically diverse country is home to over 700 recorded bird species, including some of the continent’s most sought-after and rare birds.

From lush montane rainforests and tranquil wetlands to rolling savannahs and shimmering lakes, Rwanda’s varied landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for birding adventures.

What sets Rwanda apart is its accessibility and safety. The compact size of the country allows travelers to explore multiple birding hotspots within a short time frame, while its excellent infrastructure and expert local guides ensure a seamless and enriching experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder chasing rare species or a beginner eager to explore, Rwanda is a destination that promises unforgettable encounters with its vibrant avian life.

Here are Rwanda’s top birdwatching sites, each offering a unique glimpse into the country’s exceptional biodiversity.

1. Nyungwe National Park

Nestled in southwestern Rwanda, Nyungwe National Park is a tropical montane rainforest renowned for its incredible biodiversity. Home to over 300 bird species, it offers birders a chance to spot rare and endemic species.

The Red-collared Babbler is the park’s crowning jewel. Other must-see species include the Rwenzori Turaco, Handsome Francolin, Grauer’s Warbler, and the colorful Regal and Purple-breasted Sunbirds.

With well-maintained trails and expert guides, Nyungwe provides an enriching birding adventure. For the lucky few, rarities like the Congo Bay Owl and Shelley’s Crimsonwing might make an appearance.

Nyungwe National Park offers birders a chance to spot rare and endemic species.

2. Akagera National Park

In the east, Akagera National Park blends savannah, wetlands, and woodland habitats, creating a vibrant ecosystem for over 400 bird species.

Known for its traditional “Big Five” safari experiences, Akagera also boasts a rich birdlife, with highlights including the range-restricted Red-faced Barbet and the majestic Shoebill.

A boat trip on Lake Ihema is a must for spotting waterbirds like the African Finfoot. Night drives add a layer of excitement, with the potential to see Verreaux’s Eagle Owl and nightjars.

Akagera also boasts a rich birdlife.

The African Fish Eagle is similar in appearance to the American Bald Eagle.The chances of observing this beautiful raptor are very high and expect to find pairs nesting close to water sources in Akagera National Park.

3. Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park, famed for its Mountain Gorillas, also hosts an impressive avian population, including 17 Albertine Rift Endemics.

For birders, the Scarlet-tufted Sunbird is a unique attraction, best spotted on a trek to Mount Bisoke’s summit. Nearby lakes and Buhanga Eco-Park further enrich the birdwatching opportunities.

The Sunbird is among unique attractions in Volcanoes National Park.

Rwanda’s varied landscapes provide the perfect backdrop for birding adventures.

4. Gishwati-Mukura National Park

Rwanda’s newest national park, Gishwati-Mukura, is a symbol of conservation and biodiversity.

Located in the mountains above Lake Kivu, it hosts over 230 bird species, including the Black-fronted Duiker.

The ongoing rehabilitation of this park promises even greater birdwatching potential in the years to come.

Visiting Gishwati-Mukura National Park leaves indelible memories for birdwatchers.

5. Lake Kivu

Lake Kivu’s tranquil shores are a refreshing stop for birders. The lake supports large populations of White-breasted Cormorants and Pied Kingfishers, while hotel gardens in Karongi and Rubavu provide sightings of species like the Double-toothed Barbet and Yellow-bellied Waxbill. The Kinunu area is particularly rewarding for spotting common terrestrial birds.

Lake Kivu offers a great bird watching experience.

6. Wetlands

Rwanda’s wetlands cover 10% of the country, offering habitats for numerous bird species.

Key sites like Rugezi Marsh, Akanyaru, and Nyabarongo Wetlands are designated Important Bird Areas by BirdLife International.

In 2006, Rugezi Marsh was designated a Ramsar site, joining a global network of wetlands protected under the Ramsar Convention, signed in 1971 and enacted in 1975.

The marsh supports populations of Grauer’s Swamp Warbler and Grey-crowned Cranes.

In the Bugesera District, wetlands and lakes offer accessible birding with sightings of Papyrus Gonolek, White-backed Duck, and Lesser Jacana.

Researchers recently 127 bird species in Rugezi Marsh, 28 of which are new to the region.

7. Kigali: Urban birding at its best

Even Rwanda’s bustling capital, Kigali, offers remarkable birding opportunities. Nyarutarama Lake, known locally as “Lover’s Lake,” and the recently inaugurated Nyandungu Ecopark are urban oases for birdwatchers.

Species like African Swamphen, Narina Trogon, and Bat Hawk are commonly spotted, making Kigali an excellent starting point for any birding itinerary.

For a close encounter with rescued Grey-crowned Cranes, Umusambi Village is a must-visit, offering a unique blend of conservation and education.

Whether you are an avid birder or a casual nature enthusiast, Rwanda offers an unforgettable journey into the world of avian beauty.

Nyandungu Eco-Tourism Park is a recreational space and wildlife habitat in the City of Kigali. It is home to different bird species.

For a close encounter with rescued Grey-crowned Cranes, Umusambi Village in Kabuga, Kigali City is a must-visit.

Théophile Niyitegeka

Besigye’s wife, Winnie Byanyima, revealed on Tuesday night that she had learned her husband was being held at a military jail in Kampala, Uganda.

Byanyima, the Executive Director of the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), condemned the alleged detention and called for her husband’s immediate release.

'I request the government of Uganda to release my husband, Dr. Kizza Besigye, from where he is being held immediately. He was kidnapped last Saturday while he was in Nairobi for Hon. Martha Karua’s book launch. I am now reliably informed that he is in a military jail in Kampala,' Byanyima said in a post on X. She added, 'We, his family and his lawyers, demand to see him. He is not a soldier. Why is he being held in a military jail?'

The motive behind Besigye’s alleged abduction and detention remains unclear.

While in Nairobi, the four-time presidential contender had been booked to stay at the Wardi Paradise Hotel and Suites in Hurlingham, a neighbourhood about a 15-minute drive from the Riverside Drive apartment in Westlands.

An official at the hotel told Uganda’s Daily Monitor that Besigye had not returned to the hotel since leaving on Saturday to attend Karua’s book launch.

Ugandan Minister for ICT and National Guidance, Dr. Chris Baryomunsi, speaking to the Daily Monitor, could neither confirm nor deny Besigye’s detention.

“I’m currently in Soroti as part of President Museveni’s entourage. I’m not aware that he is being held by the government. I’m still cross-checking with our security agencies. In any case, why would he be arrested? The government is not in the habit of arresting citizens and keeping them incommunicado forever. If he’s arrested, then he will be arraigned in court and charged accordingly. However, we are also cross-checking with our security agencies and colleagues in Kenya because we were told he had travelled there for a book launch before he disappeared,” Dr. Baryomunsi said.

It is believed that Besigye was trailed and abducted before being driven to Uganda, almost 500 kilometres away.

The Spokesperson for the National Police Service in Kenya, Dr. Resila Atieno Onyango, has, however, denied claims that the Ugandan politician was abducted in Nairobi.

Some media reports in Kampala say that Dr Besigye was found in a hotel negotiating for arms with a foreign country. According to Soft Power news, an impeccable security source is said to have intimated that he was found undermining national security with foreigners and will be arraigned before the General Court Martial today.

Kizza Besigye was once an ally of Uganda’s President Yoweri Museveni during the Ugandan Bush War (1981—1986) and the following few years.

Before their fallout, Besigye served as Museveni’s personal physician during the war and later held various positions in Museveni’s government, including Minister of State for Internal Affairs and National Political Commissar. However, their alliance began to fracture in the late 1990s over political disagreements, particularly concerning governance and democracy in Uganda.

Besigye officially broke ties with Museveni in 1999, becoming a leading opposition figure. As the leader of the Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) political party, the 68-year-old unsuccessfully contested for the presidency against Museveni in 2001, 2006, 2011, and 2016.

He has been arrested numerous times for leading anti-government protests in Uganda and charged with inciting violence.

This latest incident comes months after 36 Ugandan activists associated with Besigye were arrested in Kisumu, Kenya, in July and taken back to Uganda. They were subsequently charged with treason and remanded to Kitalya prison. They have since been released on bail after pleading not guilty to the charges.

Ugandan opposition politician Kizza Besigye is missing after attending the book launch of former Justice Minister-turned-politician Martha Karua in Nairobi, Kenya, on Saturday, November 16, 2024.

Wycliffe Nyamasege

DCG Ujeneza encouraged them to remain focused on the mission mandate with discipline and professionalism.

The Deputy Police Chief was also briefed by the Contingent commanders on their operations, and inspected the Contingents-Owned Equipment (COE).

On Monday, November 18, DCG Ujeneza met with the MINUSCA Head of Police component, Commissioner of Police (CP) Christophe Bizimungu, and pledged Rwanda’s commitment to international peace, particularly in CAR.

Rwanda maintains four Police contingents under the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in CAR (MINUSCA). They include three Formed Police Units (FPU) and a Protection Support Unit (PSU).

Rwanda FPU-1 and PSU operates in the capital Bangui while FPU-2 is deployed in Kaga-Bandoro, some 300kms out of the capital. Rwanda FPU-3 is also deployed in Bangassou.

The FPUs specialize in public order management, protection of civilians, delivery of humanitarian assistance, escort duties and protection of UN facilities.

The PSU is largely charged with ensuring protection for high profile government and UN officials, including the Prime Minister, President of National Assembly, Minister of State in charge of Justice, and MINUSCA Head of Police component, among others.

Rwandan Police has been serving in CAR since 2014.

DCG Ujeneza interacting with Rwandan Police peacekeepers in CAR.

DCG Ujeneza poses for a group photo with Rwandan Police peacekeepers and the mission management team in CAR.

DCG Ujeneza encouraged Rwandan Police peacekeepers in CAR to remain focused on the mission mandate with discipline and professionalism.

Rwanda maintains four Police contingents under the UN Multidimensional Integrated Stabilization Mission in CAR (MINUSCA).

IGIHE

The G20 leaders renewed their commitment to work towards sustainably increasing agricultural productivity and reducing food loss and waste, and recognized the interdependence of countries in achieving food security and nutrition, food safety, and sustainability through open trade policies consistent with WTO rules.

They reiterated their commitment to the United Nations Development Agenda and reaffirmed their commitment to help developing countries better integrate into the global industrial, value and supply chains and accelerate their industrialization and modernization process.

The leaders also acknowledged the impact of corruption on sustainable development, reaffirming their shared commitments and dedication to lead by example in the global efforts against corruption and related illicit financial flows.

They reiterated the central coordinating role of the World Health Organization (WHO) in the global health architecture and voiced support for drafting a WHO convention, agreement, or other international instrument on pandemic prevention, preparedness and response, with full respect for sovereignty of individual states.

The leaders emphasized the critical role of quality education and training, including digital education, as an enabler for sustainable and socio-economic growth, recognizing culture’s power and intrinsic value in nurturing solidarity, dialogue, collaboration and cooperation.

They called for support of open and inclusive dialogue on the return and restitution of cultural property, including illegally exported property.

The leaders also reaffirmed the importance of open and mutually beneficial international cooperation in research and innovation, according to the declaration.

The G20 Rio de Janeiro Leaders’ Declaration was adopted at the 19th G20 Leaders’ Summit which kicked off on Monday.

The 19th G20 Leaders’ Summit kicked off on Monday in Rio de Janeiro.

Xinhua

Xi made the remarks in a written statement on Sunday, voicing expectations to have an in-depth exchange of views with Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva on promoting synergy of the two countries’ development strategies, as well as international and regional issues of common interest.

Looking ahead to the G20 Leaders’ Summit, Xi expressed hope that the G20 would play a greater role as an important platform for international economic cooperation.

HISTORICAL JUNCTURE

As China and Brazil celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties this year, relations between the two countries stand at an important historical juncture of building on past achievements and forging ahead, Xi said in the written statement.

Over the past 50 years, China-Brazil relations have withstood the test of a changing international landscape and become increasingly mature and vibrant, Xi said in a signed article published in Brazilian media outlet Folha de S. Paulo on Sunday.

In recent years, China and Brazil have continued to deepen political mutual trust, yielded fruitful results in practical cooperation, achieved flourishing people-to-people and cultural cooperation, and showed new vitality of the times in the traditional friendship, Xi said.

The two countries have also jointly made the just voice of the Global South in the international arena and made important contributions to promoting world peace and development, Xi added.

The dynamic relationship between China and Brazil has not only boosted their respective development but also contributed significantly to world peace and stability, having become a model for major developing countries to develop win-win cooperation and pursue a shared future, Xi said.

In a world undergoing an accelerating transformation unseen in a century, Xi said the two countries should stay the course of friendly relations, foster new growth drivers for mutually beneficial cooperation, solidify the foundation of people-to-people friendship, strengthen solidarity, support each other and fulfill their responsibilities as major countries.

“We must work together with others in the Global South to resolutely safeguard the developing nations’ common interests, address global challenges through cooperation, and promote a global governance system that is fairer and more equitable,” he said.

Xi said he believes his visit will further strengthen the two countries’ strategic mutual trust, deepen exchanges and cooperation in various fields and usher in a new “golden 50 years” for China-Brazil relations.

GREATER ROLE

This year’s G20 Leaders’ Summit, scheduled for Nov. 18-19, marks the first gathering of its kind since the accession of the African Union as a full member, a historic milestone that strengthens the voice of the Global South.

Envisioning a greater role for G20, Xi said he is ready to work with all parties to discuss plans and seek development, jointly advocate an equal and orderly multi-polar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.

Javier Miranda, former president of Uruguay’s Broad Front party, expressed his hope that this summit will mark a significant step toward building a multi-polar world — one that fosters dialogue.

In a world fraught with wars and conflicts, the commitment to dialogue stands as one goal of this G20 meeting, he told Xinhua.

After taking over the G20 presidency, Brazil has established the summit theme as “Building a Just World and a Sustainable Planet.” Key priorities outlined by the Brazilian government include combating hunger, poverty, and inequality, advancing sustainable development, and driving reforms in global governance.

To build a just world, the G20 has to honor the principles of mutual respect, equal-footed cooperation and mutual benefit, and support Global South countries in achieving greater development, Xi said in the signed article.

“Development must be placed at the center of G20 cooperation,” said the Chinese president, noting it is important to press ahead with the reform of the International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and the World Trade Organization and to increase the representation and voice of the Global South.

To build a sustainable planet, the G20 has to promote sustainable production and lifestyle as a way to achieve harmony between humanity and nature, Xi said.

Xi also pledged China’s active support for the initiative of a Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty proposed by Brazilian President Lula.

“As we gather at the G20 to address critical global issues such as governance, hunger, sustainability, and the environment, we recognize the crucial role of our partnership with China,” said Rodrigo Castro, deputy secretary for Major Events and Promotion Actions of the Government of the State of Rio de Janeiro.

Many of the solutions to address challenges faced by developing nations stem from ideas and practices already implemented in China, Castro said. “For us Brazilians who are hosting the G20 … we are very proud to welcome the president and the entire Chinese delegation.”

Xinhua

Following is the English version of the full text of the speech:

Working Together for a Fair and Equitable Global Governance System

Remarks by H.E. Xi Jinping, President of the People’s Republic of China On Reform of the Institutions of Global Governance At Session II of the 19th G20 Summit, Rio de Janeiro, November 18, 2024

Your Excellency President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva,

Colleagues,

It has been 16 years since the G20 Summit was launched. Over the years, we have worked in solidarity to tackle the global financial crisis, promoted cooperation on global economy, finance and trade, and steered the world economy onto the track of recovery. We have worked in concert to face global challenges head-on, be it climate change or the COVID-19 pandemic, spearheaded technological transformation, and kept renewing the G20’s responsibilities and missions. We have worked in unison to improve global governance, strengthened macroeconomic policy coordination, pressed ahead with reforming the international financial institutions, and championed international cooperation in the spirit of equal consultation and mutual benefit.

Proceeding from a new starting point, the G20 needs to build on its past achievements and continue to act as a force to improve global governance and move history forward. We should keep in mind that mankind lives in a community with a shared future, see each other’s development as opportunities rather than challenges, and view each other as partners rather than rivals. We should observe the basic norms of international relations underpinned by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and defend the international order based on international law. In light of the G20’s mandate, we could build greater international consensus in the economic, financial, trade, digital and eco-environmental fields, among others, to improve global governance and promote an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.

First, we need to improve global economic governance and build a world economy characterized by cooperation. We have developed the G20 comprehensive growth strategies and established a framework for strong, sustainable, balanced and inclusive growth. We should stay committed to strengthening global economic partnerships, reinforcing macro policy coordination in fiscal, financial, monetary and structural reform policies, cultivating new quality productive forces, and raising total factor productivity, in a bid to open up more possibilities for the global economy. It is important to make good use of the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meetings, let them serve as a ballast for macro policy coordination, and foster an open, inclusive, and nondiscriminatory environment for international economic cooperation. As main creditors, international financial institutions and commercial creditors need to take part in debt reduction and suspension for developing countries. It is also important to create a clean business environment by upholding a zero-tolerance stance against corruption, stepping up international cooperation on fugitive repatriation and asset recovery, and denying safe haven to corrupt officials and their assets.

Second, we need to improve global financial governance and build a world economy characterized by stability. To increase the voice and representation of developing countries, the World Bank should carry out shareholding review and the International Monetary Fund should carry out quota share realignment in line with the agreed timeframe and roadmap. Joint efforts are needed to keep the international financial market stable and prevent negative spillover of domestic monetary policy adjustments. Developed countries should fulfill their responsibilities in this regard. It is important to enhance the systems for financial risks monitoring, early warning and handling, reinforce cooperation in such areas as digital currency and taxation, and strengthen the global financial safety net. The G20 Sustainable Finance Roadmap should be implemented at a faster pace to better meet the green financing needs of developing countries.

Third, we need to improve global trade governance and build a world economy characterized by openness. We should place development at the center of the international economic and trade agenda, and steadily advance trade and investment liberalization and facilitation. We should press ahead with reforming the World Trade Organization (WTO), oppose unilateralism and protectionism, restore the normal functioning of the dispute settlement mechanism as soon as possible, include the Investment Facilitation for Development Agreement into the WTO legal framework, and reach early consensus on the e-commerce agreement. We should work actively to keep the WTO rules relevant, both addressing long-pending issues and exploring the formulation of new, future-oriented rules, to enhance the authority, efficacy and relevance of the multilateral trading system. It is important to avoid politicizing economic issues, avoid fragmenting the global market, and avoid taking protectionist moves in the name of green and low-carbon development. Two years ago, China and Indonesia, together with some other countries, launched the Initiative of International Cooperation on Resilient and Stable Industrial and Supply Chains, calling for industrial and supply chain partnerships that are more equal, inclusive and constructive. We stand ready for closer cooperation with all sides on this initiative.

Fourth, we need to improve global digital governance and build a world economy characterized by innovation. We should strengthen the function of the G20 Digital Economy Ministers’ Meeting, and let it play a leading role in digital transition, the deep integration of the digital economy and the real economy, and rules-making in emerging areas. We should step up international governance and cooperation on artificial intelligence (AI), to make sure that AI is for good and for all, not a game of the rich countries and the wealthy. China hosted the 2024 World AI Conference and High-Level Meeting on Global AI Governance, and issued the Shanghai Declaration on Global AI Governance. Together with other parties, China promoted the adoption of a UN General Assembly resolution on enhancing international cooperation on AI capacity-building. China will hold another world AI conference in 2025 and welcomes the participation of fellow G20 members.

Fifth, we need to improve global ecological governance and build a world economy characterized by eco-friendliness. We should honor the principle of common but differentiated responsibilities, and fully and effectively implement the Paris Agreement and the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework for the sake of man’s harmonious coexistence with nature. Developed countries should provide developing countries with the necessary funding, technology and capacity-building support. The recently concluded UN Biodiversity Conference produced important consensus. We should jointly support the ongoing and upcoming UN conferences on climate change and desertification in achieving positive outcomes. Energy transition and energy security is a major issue. We should follow the approach of “establishing the new before abolishing the old,” and replace traditional energy with clean energy in a stable and well-ordered way, as we expedite the green and low-carbon transition of the world economy. China stands ready to continue to deepen international cooperation with all sides on green infrastructure, green energy, green mining and green transport, and will provide support to developing countries to the best of its ability.

Global security governance is part and parcel of global governance. The G20 should support the UN and its Security Council in playing a greater role, and support all efforts conducive to the peaceful settlement of crises. To deescalate the Ukraine crisis and seek a political settlement, we should follow the principles of no expansion of the battlefields, no escalation of hostilities and no fanning flames. China and Brazil, together with some other Global South countries, launched the group of “friends for peace” on the Ukraine crisis, with the goal of bringing together more voices for peace. The fighting in Gaza has inflicted deep suffering on the people. It is urgent for all sides to stop fighting, end the war, and provide support for easing the humanitarian crisis in the region and for postwar reconstruction. The fundamental way out of the cycle of Palestinian-Israeli conflict lies in the implementation of the two-State solution, the restoration of Palestine’s legitimate national rights, and the establishment of an independent State of Palestine.

Colleagues,

Let us renew our commitment to the founding mission of the G20, and make a fresh start from Rio de Janeiro. Let us carry forward partnership, practice true multilateralism, and usher in a better future of common development and prosperity.

Thank you.

IGIHE

At Session II of the 19th G20 Summit in Rio de Janeiro on Monday, Chinese President Xi Jinping called for building a world economy characterized by cooperation, stability, openness, innovation, and eco-friendliness.

Xinhua

Xinhua