Global crises facing the world can only be tackled by cooperation between the developed and undeveloped worlds, President Jacob Zuma said on Wednesday.

"The world is today confronted by multiple crises... These crises require a global response that involves developed and developing countries in a partnership of cooperation and mutual respect," he said, according to a statement issued by the Presidency following a meeting of the leaders of the Group of Five (G5) - Brazil, China, India, Mexico and South Africa - in L'Aquila, Italy.

"We are here because we believe that the challenges that affect the world today can only be resolved through peaceful cooperation, global dialogue and, most importantly, coordinated action."

These partnerships were needed to meet global challenges such as climate change and the current economic downturn.

He also called for reforms in international institutions such as the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank.