United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced his decision to boycott the forthcoming G20 Summit in Johannesburg, citing grave concerns over South Africa’s policies, including property expropriation and its agenda at the global forum.
Rubio expressed his views via a post on social media platform X, stating: “I will not attend the G20 summit in Johannesburg. South Africa is doing very bad things.
Expropriating private property. Using G20 to promote 'solidarity, equality, & sustainability.' In other words: DEI and climate change.”
Explaining his decision, Rubio underscored his responsibility to advance American interests.
“My job is to advance America's national interests, not waste taxpayer money or coddle anti-Americanism,” he asserted.
His remarks have drawn attention to South Africa's presidency of the G20, which commenced on 1 December 2024 and runs until November 2025.
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Under its leadership, the summit has placed an emphasis on themes such as inclusivity, sustainability, and global equity.
The G20, which comprises 19 nations and the European Union, accounts for 85 per cent of global Gross Domestic Product, over 75 per cent of international trade, and about two-thirds of the world’s population.
Its rotating presidency allows member nations to steer the agenda for international cooperation on economic and development issues.
South Africa’s presidency comes at a time of heightened political and economic challenges. Rubio's criticism of its governance, particularly over property expropriation without compensation, reflects growing tensions between the two nations.
The G20's regional groupings divide members into five clusters. Group 1, for instance, comprises Australia, Canada, Saudi Arabia, and the United States, while Group 2 includes India, Russia, South Africa, and Turkey.
As the Johannesburg summit approaches, Rubio’s decision to abstain underscores growing geopolitical divides. His strong stance may resonate with sections of the American political landscape but has drawn mixed responses globally.
The summit will bring together key world leaders to discuss pressing global issues, including climate change, trade dynamics, and sustainable development.
Whether Rubio’s absence will impact the discourse remains to be seen
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