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US secretary of state Marco Rubio has announced that he will not be attending the meeting of G20 foreign ministers in Johannesburg this month. This decision comes as a result of South Africa’s efforts to promote “equality, solidarity, and sustainability,” which Rubio and President Donald Trump have strongly criticized.
Rubio expressed his disapproval of South Africa’s actions, particularly their expropriation of private property and their focus on issues such as diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) and climate change at the G20 summit. He stated that his primary responsibility is to advance America’s national interests and that attending the summit would not align with that goal.
South Africa, as the current holder of the G20’s rotating leadership, has made climate justice for developing nations a key focus of their presidency. However, Rubio’s decision to boycott the meeting may strain relations between the US and South Africa, especially as the US is set to take over the G20 leadership next year.
It is uncommon for a country to skip G20 meetings, and the absence of the US could create opportunities for other nations, particularly China, to strengthen their ties with Africa. Rubio, known for his hardline stance on China, has also criticized South Africa for aligning with Beijing’s interests, particularly in their recent actions towards Taiwan.
South African officials have expressed confusion over Rubio’s boycott, emphasizing that the G20 is a global event and not specific to South Africa. Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola defended South Africa’s presidency, stating that their goals extend beyond climate change to ensuring fair treatment for all nations, especially those in the global south.
China’s ambassador to South Africa, Wu Peng, has offered support for South Africa’s G20 presidency, further highlighting the potential impact of Rubio’s absence on diplomatic relations. Analysts have noted that the US’s withdrawal could signal a broader retreat from the international stage, leaving room for other countries to step in and fill the void.
President Trump has also weighed in on the situation, criticizing South Africa’s new land ownership laws that allow for land to be seized without compensation. This move, aimed at rectifying injustices from the apartheid era, has drawn strong reactions from Trump and his allies, including Elon Musk.
As the G20 meetings continue throughout the year, the question remains whether the US will ultimately pull out of the summit in November. South African officials have indicated that they have not been contacted by US officials regarding their attendance, raising concerns about the lack of consultation and communication in international relations.
In conclusion, Rubio’s decision to boycott the G20 meeting in Johannesburg reflects the broader tensions between the US and South Africa over issues of land ownership, climate change, and international diplomacy. The repercussions of this action remain to be seen, but it has certainly raised questions about the future of US engagement in global forums.
