Tánaiste Simon Harris will today attend G20 meetings in South Africa.  

The G20, or 'Group of 20', is a forum of the world’s leading economies discussing global economic and financial stability.  

Ireland is participating for the first time - as a guest country during South Africa’s G20 Presidency.  

The Tánaiste is also taking part in a number of bilateral meetings with counterparts from other G20 countries while in the country.

Today, I’m traveling to South Africa to take part in the G20 . This marks Ireland’s first-ever participation in this global forum.

This is a crucial opportunity to highlight the issues that matter to you and engage in discussions on the major geopolitical challenges we face. pic.twitter.com/Z8qlMZ6wqX

— Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) February 19, 2025

Speaking ahead of the meeting, the Tánaiste said Ireland's invitation to the G20 comes at a pivotal time and reflects the Republic’s long and proud tradition for supporting global development. 

He also said the situation in Ukraine would be top of the agenda.

"I look forward to using the opportunity of being in South Africa to meet with many European counterparts and representatives of the European Commission to get the very latest on the situation in Ukraine," he said.

At the meeting, there will also be representatives from Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, Britain, the United States, the African Union and the European Union.

Main image: Simon Harris. Picture by: Sasko Lazarov/RollingNews