Forum aspires to reimagine economic frameworks for a more equitable global future
The first-ever Global South Economic Forum (GSEF), set for June 17, 2025, will bring together policymakers, experts, think-tankers, technocrats and innovators to drive solutions for closing this critical gap and advancing the ambitions of the developing nations.
Organised by Centre of Geoeconomics for the Global South (COGGS) in partnership with Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy (AGDA), UAE, Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies (ACCWS), China, and Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research, UAE, the high-level forum GSEF 2025 aspires to reimagine economic frameworks for a more equitable global future.
HE Ahmed Al Sayegh, Minister of State, Economic and Trade Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, UAE, will deliver the keynote address in the Plenary Session, which will include a panel discussion in presence of Jawad Al Anani, former Deputy Prime Minister, Jordan; Christian Cardona, former Trade Minister, Malta; Seyed Sajjadpour, former Deputy Foreign Minister, Iran, and Nickolay Mladenov, Director General, AGDA.
Sustainable development
In 2025, the global financing gap for sustainable development in developing countries is estimated to be US$ 4tn annually. This gap represents a significant increase from previous years, with factors like climate change, conflict, and geopolitical uncertainty driving up the need for development finance, said a recent United Nations report. The gap has increased by 60 percent compared to previous estimates, reaching US$ 4tn from US$ 2.5tn.
The financing gap threatens the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as ending poverty, fighting climate change, and building sustainable economies. UN officials have called for urgent action to address the financing gap, emphasizing the need for more resources and a global financial overhaul.
The forum will also explore pathways to strengthen regional economic integration through trade blocs, infrastructure development, and collaborative initiatives that deepen Global South economic ties.
“The Global South is no longer merely a recipient of global economic trends; it is a powerful force shaping them. This Forum will be instrumental in forging pathways for shared prosperity and a more balanced global economic order,” stated Mohammed Saqib, Founder and Convenor, COGGS.
