The President of the Brazilian Federal Court of Accounts (TCU), Minister Bruno Dantas, met with Girish Chandra Murmu, the Comptroller and Auditor General of the SAI India, in New York on March 26th. The meeting officially signalled the transition of the SAI20 presidency – a group composed of the SAIs of the countries that make up the G20 – from India to Brazil. 

Minister Bruno Dantas emphasized the partnership between the institutions of the two countries and committed to work towards amplifying the voice of Supreme Audit Institutions on the global stage.  

"Our meeting comes at a pivotal moment, amid a resounding global call for actions concerning climate change. It is particularly noteworthy that this transition occurs in the context of the ClimateScanner Global Call, hosted at the United Nations (UN) headquarters. Additionally, the issue of climate change holds paramount significance in this year's SAI20, aligning with the global efforts of INTOSAI to address climate challenges."  

Although the symbolic act of transitioning the SAI20 presidency occurred on March 26th, TCU has been working for the group since December 1, 2023. The Court will preside over the SAI20 until November 30, 2024, aligning with Brazil's leadership in the G20, which brings together the world's major economies, as well as the European Union and the African Union. The G20 acts as the main forum for international economic cooperation. And the Court has represented the country in discussions involving the Supreme Audit Institutions. 

Aligned with the G20 agenda, the SAI20 Engagement Group views climate finance and the fight against hunger and poverty as global and urgent concerns, demanding the attention and action of Supreme Audit Institutions worldwide. Spearheading the group, TCU has fostered discussions to develop solutions through responsible public policy that benefits both the environment and communities.  

“We understand that the impacts of climate change go well beyond environmental considerations, carrying profound socio-economic consequences. Therefore, as we pursue sustainable development, the transition to clean energy becomes not merely a choice but a necessity, especially in our joint efforts to alleviate poverty on a global scale."  

The SAI20 acts as a catalyst for dynamic dialogue and the exchange of best practices among member countries. However, according to Minister Bruno Dantas, responsibilities go beyond mere dialogue. "We must escalate these discussions to the highest levels of governance, involving G20 leaders and advocating for policies that prioritize climate action and sustainable development," he concluded. 

Girish Chandra Murmu drew an analogy to commend the operation of the G20 and consequently the SAI20. "They function through the Troika mechanism – with the past, present, and future host countries collaborating. This fosters seamless transitions between countries, ensuring the agenda stays consistent and builds upon prior discussions and agreements," he underscored. 

Finally, the representative from India wished President Bruno Dantas success in leading the SAI20 and assured unlimited support to Brazil. "I am confident that under your competent leadership, the SAI20 will grow even further, promoting efficiency, accountability, and transparency in public administration. In other words, implementing public policies and supporting the Sustainable Development Goals. Together, we will strive to increase sustainability, resilience, and social responsibility," he concluded.  

About SAI20 

SAI20 – Supreme Audit Institution Engagement Group of 20 – was conceived from the initiative of the Audit Board of the Republic of Indonesia (BPK) in September 2021. The group supports governments in restoring global economic conditions and developing public policies to improve the quality of life worldwide. 

Since its establishment, the SAI20 has convened both virtual and in-person technical meetings to set forth commitments, regulations, and work agendas. In 2024, two in-person events are scheduled to take place in Brazil: the Senior Officials Meeting (SOM) and the SAI20 Summit. Among the group's goals are the exchange of best practices and endeavours to tackle global challenges such as poverty, hunger, and issues pertaining to climate change.