South Africa has moved to reassure the international community that this week’s G20 Leaders Summit will continue without disruption, despite several world leaders choosing not to attend.
The country will host heads of state from the G20 group along with delegates from invited nations on Saturday and Sunday, marking the conclusion of South Africa’s year long presidency of the forum.
Preparations for the gathering come amid heightened attention following the decision by the United States to stay away. The absence follows claims by President Donald Trump regarding so called white genocide in South Africa, which have been widely dismissed as false.
Government officials held a state of readiness briefing at Nasrec in Johannesburg on Monday, emphasising that the summit will proceed as planned.
Government Downplays United States Absence
International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola said South Africa is not concerned about Washington’s decision. He noted that while the United States will not be represented, government has remained focused on its responsibilities as host.
Lamola confirmed that four other national leaders will also not be present, namely from China, Mexico, Argentina and Russia. Their countries will instead send representatives at foreign minister level. He said their absence should not be interpreted as a slight against South Africa or the continent.
Summit Expected to Deliver Outcomes
Despite the reduced number of heads of state, government believes the meeting remains on track to produce a joint declaration. Officials say there is sufficient consensus among the attending member states to advance key decisions and reaffirm commitments on shared global priorities.
The summit is expected to address economic cooperation, development, trade and other pressing international challenges.
Facebook Comments