Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan called on world leaders to adopt fairer and more inclusive economic policies during his address at the G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg on Saturday.

Highlighting the struggles faced by low-income nations, Erdoğan urged the international community to strengthen cooperation, overhaul debt restructuring mechanisms, and reinforce sustainable supply chains to support global stability.

Speaking before fellow heads of state, Erdoğan stressed that the world economy cannot recover or grow equitably without addressing the systemic imbalances that disadvantage developing nations. He underscored the need for “robust international cooperation,” particularly as the global economy continues to face post-pandemic shocks, geopolitical tensions, and supply chain disruptions.

A major focus of Erdoğan’s speech was the reform of international debt restructuring processes. He reiterated Türkiye’s support for frameworks that ensure low-income countries receive fair, equal, and transparent treatment when dealing with sovereign debt burdens.

“Debt restructuring must be based on justice and equitable principles,” Erdoğan said, noting that many vulnerable countries remain trapped in unsustainable financial cycles exacerbated by high interest rates, currency pressures, and limited access to global financing tools.

Erdoğan also urged G20 nations to step up their responsibilities in building a fairer and more inclusive economic architecture. He emphasized that the G20—representing the world’s major economies—has an obligation to ensure that no country is left behind in global development.

“I invite the entire G20 to assume greater responsibility in building a more inclusive global economy where no one is left behind,” the Turkish president said.

His remarks positioned Türkiye as an advocate for developing nations and a proponent of structural reforms within the global financial system.

Erdoğan’s attendance at the Johannesburg summit highlights Türkiye’s continued commitment to active diplomacy within multilateral platforms. His focus on sustainable supply chains, equitable development, and balanced global governance reflects longstanding Turkish foreign policy goals aimed at bridging gaps between advanced and emerging economies.

The two-day summit brings together the world’s leading economic powers to discuss global trade, financial stability, development challenges, and geopolitical tensions. Türkiye’s interventions—led by President Erdoğan—underscore the country’s intention to play a constructive role in shaping a more just and resilient international economic order. (ILKHA)