US Refusal to Adopt G20 Declaration Not a South Africa Problem, Sherpa Says

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The United States' request to abstain from adopting a declaration at the upcoming G20 Global Leaders' Summit in Johannesburg is not solely dependent on South Africa, the current host, according to Xolisa Mabhongo, the country's G20 Sherpa. Mabhongo clarified that the decision to adopt a declaration involves all 20 member countries, including the European Union and the African Union, and not just the host nation. The US communicated its preference to forego a declaration in the absence of its representatives at the meeting, but Mabhongo emphasized that no single country can dictate the outcome. South Africa's G20 presidency has been focused on four key priorities: disaster risk reduction, the Just Energy transition, debt burden for low- and middle-income countries, and critical minerals. Mabhongo assured that these issues would continue to be discussed beyond 2028, as they are of global significance. The G20 Sherpas meeting, which began on Sunday, has been characterized by a positive atmosphere, with all participating countries cooperating towards a meaningful outcome. Mabhongo also defended South Africa's agenda, stating that as the presidency, the country has the right to set the agenda for its term. He cited the review of the G20's effectiveness as an initiative that received widespread appreciation from member countries. When asked about the potential impact of the US's absence on the African continental development agenda, Mabhongo emphasized that these issues transcend any one-year presidency and would continue to be debated beyond 2028.