Diplomatic fallout: South Africa's next move after G20's US cold shoulder

The South African government has expressed its disappointment and regret following the United States' decision to exclude the nation from next year's G20 summit, a move described by the minister in the Presidency, Khumbudzo Ntshavheni, as regrettable, yet one that will not deter South Africa’s commitment to global multilateralism.

Speaking at a post-Cabinet briefing on Wednesday, Ntshavheni addressed the unexpected development, confirming that the cabinet views the exclusion as a setback but maintains a firm resolve to engage diplomatically to safeguard South Africa’s standing in the international forum.

“Cabinet says the US' decision to exclude South Africa from next year's G20 is regrettable,” minister Ntshavheni said.

“While this development is regrettable, as a founding member, South Africa's commitment to G20 principles and collaborative framework remain unwavering.”

The G20, or Group of Twenty, comprises the world's major developed and developing economies, representing around 80% of global GDP, 75% of global trade, and two-thirds of the world’s population. 

South Africa has historically been the only permanent African member, playing a crucial role as a bridge between the developed North and the developing South, as well as an advocate for the African continent's interests.

Ntshavheni added that the government will be ramping up its diplomatic efforts in the wake of the US announcement. 

She said the government will continue engaging through diplomatic channels to safeguard South Africa’s role in the global forum.

The minister’s comments made it clear that despite the exclusion, the fundamental principles guiding South Africa’s foreign policy would not change. 

Ntshavheni maintained a strong commitment to international cooperation as the bedrock of global progress.

“The 2025 G20 summit demonstrated the power of multilateralism and cooperation, and the cabinet remains confident that multilateralism and cooperation are the path to shared prosperity for all people of the world,” she said.

She reiterated this position firmly adding that South Africa remains firmly committed to multilateralism and international cooperation.

While the specifics of the US' reasoning for the exclusion have not been officially detailed by the US government, the geopolitical context surrounding global alliances and recent voting patterns in international bodies are widely speculated to be factors.

The minister said for South Africa, the exclusion is a significant blow, given the country's aspiration to champion the Global South and its role in groups like BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa).

The G20 platform has been critical for the nation to secure international investment, discuss climate change, and address global economic inequalities.

Ntshavheni further said the government would be using all available diplomatic avenues to reverse the decision or, at the very least, ensure that South Africa’s voice and the interests it represents are not entirely sidelined in future G20 discussions. 

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