15 Jun 2020

The President, Dr Mokgweetsi Masisi, is attending a two-day virtual United Nations (UN) Global Compact 2020 Leaders’ Summit that started yesterday.  

A news release from the Ministry of International Affairs and Cooperation states that in the advent of COVID-19, this year’s summit marks the 20th anniversary of the UN Global Compact under the theme: Recover Better, Recover Stronger, Recover Together.

The summit has virtually brought together global leaders from government, UN, business, academia and civil society to explore ways in which the global community can rebuild  inclusive economies and societies that also  promote a more climate resilient world.

President Masisi will today deliver opening remarks at the high level session on Raise SDG Ambition to Build Back Better and Recover Stronger.

Other high level sessions will include those focusing on climate change, private sector investment in vaccines for COVID-19 and re-defining Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) leadership in a post COVID-19 world.   The UN Global Compact was launched in 2000 to support and guide global businesses to advance UN goals and values through responsible corporate practices underpinned by key principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption.

It is anticipated that the summit will spur collective action towards stronger recovery and more resilient economies against COVID-19 and other future pandemics.

President Masisi’s delegation include Minister of International Affairs and Cooperation, Dr Unity Dow, Minister of Finance and Economic Development, Dr Thapelo Matsheka as well as Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Ms Peggy Serame. ENDS