By Palesa Matlala
- South Africa blocks a junior United States official from taking the G20 summit declaration after the country sends no senior delegates to Johannesburg.
- The summit at Nasrec Expo Centre hosts 42 countries and groups focused on Africa’s growth, while the United States’ absence draws attention.
The G20 Leader’s Summit in Johannesburg starts with frustration for many South Africans as the United States sends no high-level delegates and skips the main talks.
Instead of a top representative, the US planned to send a junior official to collect the final summit declaration. South Africa refuses.
“We marked the USA absent,” said Chrispin Phiri from the Department of International Relations and Cooperation. He said the focus remains on the countries that showed up.
People at the Nasrec Expo Centre say they feel the snub, especially as 42 other countries and organisations take part in the two-day meeting. Leaders open the summit with messages about boosting Africa’s development and building stronger partnerships.
President Cyril Ramaphosa and Deputy President Paul Mashatile welcome the delegations, showing South Africa’s effort to host a major global event. But many still talk about the missing US delegation.
The United States is not alone. Six other countries also choose to send senior officials instead of heads of state.
Former US president Donald Trump adds to the tension when he repeats claims that South Africa mistreats White Afrikaners.
Even with the drama, International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola says the turnout is a success for South Africa.
Talks continue without the United States. Phiri says most of the technical work is already done and the leaders who attend will finalise the declaration.
Pictured above: G20 summit venue at Nasrec Expo Centre
Image source: Palesa Matlala
