Valuing International Solidarity
It is an immense honour to engage in this vital discussion today, and I wish to extend my heartfelt appreciation to President Mahama for spearheading the significant initiative known as the Accra Reset. This effort marks a pivotal moment in our collective pursuit of progress.
Additionally, I must acknowledge the remarkable influence that former Prime Minister Gordon Brown continues to exert on these matters. It is a source of pride for me to stand alongside him, as he remains an invaluable asset to the United Kingdom.
The Accra Reset is founded on a core principle that resonates deeply with us in the UK: the notion of international solidarity. This concept is rooted in a partnership of equals, where nations have the autonomy to define their own priorities and develop institutions that truly reflect the societies they serve. This shared responsibility is essential for all parties involved.
Shifting Towards Genuine Partnerships
In response to these realities, the UK has undertaken a significant transformation in its approach. We are transitioning from being merely a donor to becoming an investor, shifting our focus from fragmented service delivery to the reinforcement of comprehensive systems.
This evolution involves moving away from traditional grant funding towards broader strategies that emphasise finance, expertise, science, and technology. Furthermore, we are shifting from imposing international interventions to supporting local leadership and fostering innovation. This set of changes directly aligns with the agenda we are addressing today.
The current programme effectively links health reform with the need for negotiating capacity, investment, private enterprise, and enhanced cooperation between the Global South and the North.
Essential Areas for Progress
However, to achieve meaningful advancements collectively, several key areas require transformation, which I would like to outline briefly.
Firstly, we must secure finance on a larger scale and under fairer conditions. While there is no shortage of capital globally, the challenge lies in directing it towards productive investments, infrastructure development, robust public services, and sustainable growth.
The UK is committed to supporting reforms within multilateral development banks, optimising the use of guarantees and private capital, and tackling unsustainable debt and illicit financial flows. I will be participating in the annual meetings as a board member of the World Bank to champion this agenda.
Enhancing Institutional Legitimacy
Secondly, it is crucial that we establish institutions with greater legitimacy. Nations most impacted by global decisions must have a more pronounced voice in the decision-making processes. Institutions such as the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, the United Nations, and the broader development system must better mirror the contemporary global landscape.
Thirdly, we must ensure that reforms yield tangible results. New initiatives should bolster effective institutions and enhance coordination among various actors in the development space.
As the United Kingdom prepares for its G20 presidency, we are eager to collaborate with Ghana and the other nations represented here to translate our shared ambitions into actionable cooperation.
Commitment to Locally-Led Reforms
Ghana’s leadership in the Accra Reset is already making a significant impact. I want to emphasise that the UK approaches this dialogue not with pre-determined solutions but with a steadfast commitment to listen, cultivate authentic partnerships, and leverage our diplomatic, financial, and technical capabilities to support locally-led, mutually beneficial reforms that can achieve large-scale results.
In conclusion, I believe the real measure of our efforts lies not in merely reimagining the world but in effecting positive change within it. This is the ethos I carry into my role as Foreign Secretary.
It is essential for Britain to embody strength in its values, display courage in its actions, and relentlessly pursue alliances with our global partners. Thus, I reiterate my initial message of solidarity and the UK’s unwavering dedication to collaborate with you in the spirit of genuine partnership based on equality.
Thank you very much.