Cape Town Conversation 2025: Global Leaders Tackle Future of Energy and Tech

The Cape Town Conversation 2025 brings together 300 global leaders from 55 nations for crucial discussions. This third edition focuses on solidarity, equality and sustainability themes aligned with South Africa's G20 Presidency. Key figures including Thabo Mbeki and Anand Sharma will address globalization and energy transition challenges. The event features specialized workshops on AI and digital infrastructure that will inform next year's AI Impact Summit in India.

Key Points: Cape Town Conversation 2025 Global Leaders 55 Nations

  • 300 participants from 55 countries gathering for critical global dialogue
  • Focus on solidarity, equality and sustainability themes for G20
  • Dedicated AI and Digital Public Infrastructure workshop outcomes
  • Exploring resilient futures for sustainable India-Africa livelihoods
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Cape Town Conversation 2025 to gather global leaders from 55 nations, talks on globalisation, energy and tech

ORF and Thabo Mbeki Foundation host global leaders from 55 nations to discuss globalization, energy transition, and technology reforms ahead of G20 presidency.

"Their interventions will set the agenda for conversations spanning the future of globalisation, the energy transition, and the evolving techno-order - Observer Research Foundation"

Cape Town, November 25

The Observer Research Foundation (ORF), in partnership with the Thabo Mbeki Foundation, is hosting the third edition of the Cape Town Conversation from November 24 to 26, 2025. The gathering aims to deepen dialogue on global challenges at a time when the international system is undergoing significant change.

This year's edition will bring together around 300 participants from nearly 55 countries, including policymakers, scholars, business leaders and practitioners. The discussions will take place under the broader themes of solidarity, equality and sustainability, and will align with South Africa's G20 Presidency.

The event will feature prominent figures such as former South African President Thabo Mbeki; Thoko Didiza, Speaker of the National Assembly; India's former Commerce and Industry Minister Anand Sharma; Latha Reddy, Co-Chair of the Global Commission on Stability in Cyberspace; Kenyan Blue Economy Advisor Nancy Karigithu; and Kayode Fayemi, Visiting Professor at King's College London.

Their interventions will set the agenda for conversations spanning the future of globalisation, the energy transition, the evolving techno-order, multilateral reforms and progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Alongside the main dialogues, a dedicated workshop will examine the intersection of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI). Drawing on earlier consultations held at the UNGA in New York and at the Global DPI Summit in Cape Town, the workshop will assess how countries can move from pilots to systems that deliver impact at a population scale. Insights will contribute to the forthcoming AI Impact Summit in India in February 2026.

The conference will also host a Breakfast Roundtable on "Resilient Futures: Advancing Sustainable Livelihoods in India and Africa," which will explore shared challenges and opportunities for sustainable, community-driven growth. In addition, several studio sessions will offer focused spaces for deeper engagement across the event's themes.

ORF is one of India's leading think tanks, with global outreach through its offices in Washington, D.C., and Dubai. It provides non-partisan, research-driven insights to policymakers, businesses and civil society.

The Thabo Mbeki Foundation, established in 2010, continues the legacy of former President Mbeki by promoting African development, regional integration and dialogue among global stakeholders. It works to preserve African history and foster cooperation on issues shaping the continent's future.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
The focus on India-Africa cooperation in sustainable livelihoods is much needed. Both regions face similar challenges in rural development and climate resilience. Hope this leads to concrete partnerships! 🌱
M
Michael C
While these conferences are important, I hope they move beyond just talk. We need actionable plans for energy transition that consider developing nations' needs. The gap between discussion and implementation remains wide.
A
Ananya R
Digital Public Infrastructure discussion is crucial! India's UPI and Aadhaar models can inspire many African nations. Sharing our tech solutions can strengthen South-South cooperation 💡
S
Sarah B
Impressive lineup of speakers! The focus on solidarity and sustainability aligns perfectly with current global priorities. Hope the outcomes influence G20 discussions meaningfully.
V
Vikram M
ORF doing India proud on global stage again! Their research on international relations is always insightful. The Washington and Dubai offices help amplify Indian perspectives worldwide 🙏

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