G20 Summit Concludes in South Africa
The G20 summit, a gathering of the world's major economies, concluded in South Africa with participating nations adopting a joint declaration. This marked the first instance of a G20 summit being held on the African continent.
US Non-Participation
United States President Donald Trump did not attend the summit in Johannesburg. President Trump cited claims regarding large-scale killings and land grabs affecting South Africa's white minority as his reason for abstention.
Joint Declaration and Outcomes
The adopted declaration committed to "multilateral co-operation" among member states. Key areas covered by the declaration included climate change mitigation and economic inequality.
Consensus was also reached on working towards "just, comprehensive, and lasting peace" in several regions:
- Ukraine
- Sudan
- The Democratic Republic of Congo
- The "Occupied Palestinian Territory"
Sudanese commentator and journalist Saeed Abdalla remarked on the inclusion of the Sudan conflict, stating it was "for the first time, [at] the G20 now they bring the Sudan conflict [to the forefront] after more than two years."
Leadership and Future Summits
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa stated that the agreement demonstrated "shared goals" transcending countries' differences. Brazil, Indonesia, and India have previously hosted the summit in the preceding three years.
The United States is scheduled to host the G20 summit in 2026.
Reactions to US Absence
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva commented that Trump's non-attendance 'did not matter much,' and added that multilateralism was 'more alive than ever.'
German Chancellor Fredriech Merz stated that the US decision to abstain was 'not a good decision.' Merz also observed a global realignment and the formation of new connections at the G20.
The ceremonial handover of the G20 presidency, originally scheduled for the summit's conclusion, did not take place and is expected to occur next week involving junior officials.