By Enyichukwu Enemanna
US President Donald Trump will be missing in South Africa where world leaders are expected to converge in November for G20 Summit, White House has confirmed, stating that instead, the Vice President, JD Vance will represent the US leader. This will be the first time an African country is hosting the summit.
South Africa which holds the presidency of the Group has welcomed Vance’s participation, stating that the success of the summit lies in substantive discussions rather than the presence of any single leader.
The Group, made up of the world’s largest economies comprising 19 countries plus the European and African Union meets annually to discuss global economic policies.
Trump who returned to power in January has had frosty relations with South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, accusing him of initiating policies targeting white minority in the country.
In March, South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool was expelled by the US for his criticism of Trump.
Trump also slammed a 30% tariff on goods coming into the United States from South Africa. Additionally, he also announced the withdrawal of financial aid to Pretoria.
Washington criticised Ramaphosa’s position on the Israel-Gaza war sparked by invasion of Israeli territory by Hamas in October 2023. Israel is a close ally of the US but South Africa accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of committing genocide in Gaza.
In May, Ramaphosa had visited the White House to strengthen relations but it resulted in a clash with his host, Trump. Ramaphosa firmly denied allegation of violence against white farmers which Trump said was racially motivated.
This year’s summit has the theme Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability.
