South Africa is making history as it welcomes G20 foreign ministers to Johannesburg for the first summit under an African presidency. The two-day meeting, starting Thursday, will focus on global challenges like debt sustainability, disaster resilience, and the just energy transition. However, the United States will be notably absent, following tensions over South Africa’s policies on land reform and its legal case against Israel.
SOUTH AFRICA G20 OK
South Africa is set to host G20 foreign ministers in Johannesburg this Thursday and Friday, marking the first time an African nation leads the international forum.
Under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,” South Africa’s presidency will focus on disaster resilience, debt sustainability, just energy transition, and critical minerals for inclusive growth.
Over 30 countries will attend, but the United States will be absent. Secretary of State Marco Rubio declined to participate after Washington halted aid to South Africa over a land appropriation law and Pretoria’s case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
The G20, which represents 85% of global GDP and two-thirds of the world’s population, rotates its presidency annually. South Africa took over from Brazil after becoming a permanent member in late 2023.
