On the second day of debates at the G20 summit, João Lourenço took the stage with a clear message: the need for balance when dealing with global environmental issues, particularly those affecting the extractive industry.

The summit, which brings together the world's 20 largest economies, has focused on crucial issues such as climate change, the energy transition, and sustainable development.

For the Angolan President, attempts to impose limits on oil production, one of the main economic drivers of many developing countries, must be handled sensitively. Otherwise, such measures could have adverse effects on already vulnerable nations, such as Angola.

"The adoption of laws with supranational effect requires a realistic approach, to avoid extreme solutions that worsen the poverty situation of populations in the most deprived countries."

The head of state emphasized the importance of policies that balance environmental preservation and economic development.

Oil remains a vital resource for many African countries, including Angola, whose economy relies heavily on revenue from this industry. According to João Lourenço, abruptly or thoughtlessly limiting oil exploration could jeopardize poverty reduction programs and hinder the achievement of climate goals.

“Without this support, it will be difficult to successfully implement mitigation and adaptation programs,” he stressed.

For Angola, the energy transition is a goal, but it requires technological and financial resources that are not always available. The President emphasized that, although the country is implementing strict environmental preservation policies, it faces a series of challenges, such as a lack of resources and qualified personnel.

João Lourenço used the G20 to call for international solidarity and the provision of advanced technologies that can help developing countries mitigate the effects of climate change while maintaining economic growth.

The Angolan President also highlighted the need for concrete and effective support for developing countries to face the challenges posed by climate change. He reinforced the importance of access to financial resources and technologies that help combat problems such as desertification, soil degradation, and drought.

João Lourenço emphasized that sustainable development should not be treated in isolation from the impact of external debt. He called on creditor countries and institutions to consider more supportive and fair measures in this context.

“External debt, which is often unsustainable, weakens countries’ ability to intervene,” he said.

Another central issue in João Lourenço's speech at the G20 was external debt. For many developing countries, including Angola, debt constitutes a significant obstacle to progress. According to the President, this burden limits investment capacity in essential areas such as health, education, and environmental infrastructure.

João Lourenço called on creditor countries and international financial institutions to consider more supportive and fair measures, such as debt restructuring or cancellation.

“A deep sense of justice and solidarity is needed to allow the most fragile countries to grow sustainably,” he emphasized.

The G20 represents a unique opportunity to address global problems inclusively, João Lourenço emphasized. He reiterated the importance of a joint effort between wealthy and developing nations, emphasizing that only through truly supportive partnerships will it be possible to achieve a balance between development and environmental preservation.

For Angola, the path to sustainable development requires consistent support tailored to its realities. Furthermore, the President emphasized that climate efforts should not be dissociated from other structural challenges, such as social and economic inequality.

Despite the adversities, Angola is committed to meeting its climate goals.We don't cross our arms" said the President, highlighting that the country is in the process of transforming its energy matrix to prioritize clean and renewable sources. This change is seen as an essential step toward reducing the effects of environmental pollution and promoting sustainable development.

The country is currently investing in solar, wind, and hydropower infrastructure, promoting a gradual transition to an economy less dependent on fossil fuels. These efforts reflect Angola's commitment to contributing to global climate goals while also improving the living conditions of its population.

Angola, like many African countries, faces significant environmental challenges, but João Lourenço assured that the nation will continue to work hard to overcome these difficulties, maintaining a balance between environmental preservation and economic growth.

João Lourenço's speech at the G20 reflected the dilemma faced by many developing countries: aligning their environmental and economic priorities with global demands without compromising the well-being of their populations. The Angolan president advocated a vision of international cooperation based on solidarity and justice, essential to ensuring a sustainable future for all.