Will South Africa's G20 Declaration Proceed Without US?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a bold statement, President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa emphasizes that the nation will not be intimidated by external pressures, especially from the United States, regarding the upcoming G20 declaration. Despite political tensions, the summit is set to proceed, focusing on crucial global issues.
Key Takeaways
- South Africa's strong stance against external pressures.
- US diplomatic boycott highlights ongoing tensions.
- Focus on global economic growth and cooperation.
- South Africa's leadership role in the G20.
- Continued claims of human rights violations challenged by the government.
Johannesburg, Nov 20 (NationPress) Asserting that South Africa will not be intimidated by anyone, President Cyril Ramaphosa on Thursday directed his remarks towards the United States, declaring that the G20 declaration will move forward, regardless of US participation.
"The discussions are progressing exceptionally well. I am optimistic that we are approaching the declaration, and the final touches are being made," Ramaphosa stated, responding to inquiries about the issuance of a declaration after the G20 Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg this weekend.
Ramaphosa made his comments during the closing ceremony of the G20 Social Summit in Boksburg on Thursday.
US President Donald Trump has announced that no officials from the American government will be present at this year's G20 summit in South Africa, accusing the host nation of mistreating its minority white farmers.
"It is a complete disgrace that the G20 will take place in South Africa," Trump expressed on his social media platform earlier this month, alleging that the South African government has permitted abuses against Afrikaners, including violence, killings, and land seizures.
"Afrikaners (descendants of Dutch settlers, as well as French and German immigrants) are being killed and their land and farms are being illegally taken. No US Government Official will participate as long as these human rights violations continue. I am eager to host the 2026 G20 in Miami, Florida!" he added.
Trump had previously indicated that he would not attend the summit in person, which gathers leaders from the world's largest and emerging economies.
This decision marks a rare diplomatic boycott of a significant global forum by the United States, highlighting the Trump administration's increasingly confrontational approach towards South Africa.
The South African government has continually dismissed US allegations of discrimination, asserting that white South Africans maintain higher living standards than the Black majority population, decades after apartheid's conclusion. Ramaphosa has previously informed Trump that claims of widespread persecution of white farmers are entirely false.
South Africa currently holds the rotating presidency of the G20, with the United States set to assume the role next year.
Despite Washington's absence, the summit will continue as planned, with world leaders concentrating on global economic growth, energy transition, and development cooperation.
Point of View
It's vital to recognize the significance of President Ramaphosa's assertive stance. The tensions with the US highlight the complexities of international relations today. South Africa's commitment to proceeding with the G20 declaration, irrespective of US involvement, signals a strong message about its sovereignty and leadership on the global stage.
NationPress
20/11/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What did President Ramaphosa say about the G20 declaration?
President Ramaphosa asserted that South Africa will proceed with the G20 declaration, irrespective of US involvement, emphasizing that the nation will not be intimidated.
Why is the US not attending the G20 summit?
US President Donald Trump announced that no American officials will attend due to accusations against the South African government regarding the treatment of minority white farmers.
What are the key issues discussed at the G20 summit?
The G20 summit will focus on global economic growth, energy transition, and development cooperation among nations.
