Klingbeil on a boat tour: G-20 summit in Durban promises big things!

Klingbeil on a boat tour: G-20 summit in Durban promises big things!

On July 18, 2025, Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil arrived in South Africa to take part in the G-20 finance ministers meeting in Durban. This represents his second major trip abroad since taking office. Klingbeil has symbolically taken off his tie to focus on the challenges and opportunities of globalization. The port of Durban, one of the largest in Africa, is a central point for trade between southern Africa and the rest of the world.

Klingbeil is currently on a tour boat in the harbor as he passes the impressive container ship Maersk San Christobal. The ship, which is an impressive 300 meters long and 48 meters wide, is currently being unloaded by cranes in the harbor. Here the Finance Minister's focus is not only on business, but also on creating economic connections and contacts.

Multilateral cooperation

During the summit, Klingbeil emphasized the importance of a multilateral, rules-based order and the need for international formats. Although US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is not present, the topic of Donald Trump remains omnipresent, especially due to the effects of US tariffs that affect all G20 countries. Klingbeil is calling for a quick solution to the existing customs disputes and is committed to a constructive climate for discussions.

Another important aspect of the discussions is the special situation of South Africa and the challenges that the African continent is facing. Finance Minister Enoch Godongwana highlights these particular difficulties as Germany seeks to position itself as a partner for the global south. Klingbeil emphasizes that economic and political cooperation with Africa, Latin America and Asia should be expanded in order to promote sustainable growth.

Political ambitions

Klingbeil also uses his visit to make new foreign policy contacts. In the run-up to the G-20 summit, he set up a new foreign policy department in his ministry. With this initiative, he aims to increase Germany's visibility in international affairs and take an active role in the global political landscape. His efforts during the G20 summit are part of a broader plan to take responsibility on foreign policy issues and intensify dialogue with global partners.