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TimesLiveTimesLive20/11/2025
POSITIVE

WATCH | SA hits back at US attempt to derail outcomes of G20 summit

WATCH | SA hits back at US attempt to derail outcomes of G20 summit

Executive Summary

South Africa's government has firmly rejected a US diplomatic warning against issuing any G20 Leaders’ Summit declaration without American participation, as the United States has opted for a complete boycott of the event hosted by Pretoria. In a note verbale dated November 15, Washington opposed framing any outcome as a full G20 consensus without its agreement, proposing instead a Chair’s Statement to reflect the lack of unanimity, while alleging SA's priorities conflict with US policy. Spokesperson Vincent Magwenya affirmed the summit will proceed as planned, with a declaration based on consensus among attending members, bolstered by France's commitment to support Pretoria. This confrontation highlights the US's isolation and SA's resolve to lead its G20 presidency effectively.