Not even the absence of a global superpower could overshadow South Africa’s historic hosting of one of the world’s most prestigious political gatherings on African soil for the first time. The Group of 20 Leaders’ Summit wrapped up in Johannesburg on Sunday, with President Cyril Ramaphosa declaring that the country had achieved its goal of putting Africa and its development priorities firmly on the agenda.

Whether by broadcast glitch or strategic intent, Ramaphosa moved swiftly through one of the summit’s most crucial tests, tabling the final declaration for adoption immediately after his opening remarks—broadcast live across the world. Although Argentina later expressed reservations, the remainder of the bloc endorsed the declaration.

“Our agreement on a declaration during this summit demonstrates the value of the G20 as a forum that can facilitate joint action on issues of shared concern,” Ramaphosa said.

While European Union leaders held urgent discussions on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the sidelines, global peace ultimately emerged as a key resolution of the summit. “Recognising our interconnectedness as a global community of nations, we have called for an end to conflicts and wars around the globe and for a just, comprehensive and lasting peace.”

The G20 also committed to supporting low- and middle-income countries facing debt pressures that hinder infrastructure development and the transition to cleaner, more sustainable energy systems.

With the declaration now adopted, Ramaphosa noted that the next step rests squarely with world leaders: to turn their commitments into action.