Despite US Resistance, G20 Leaders in South Africa Issue a Declaration
World leaders from the Group of 20 major and developing economies gathered in South Africa on Saturday for the first-ever G20 summit held on African soil. Breaking tradition, the summit opened with the immediate adoption of a joint declaration that underscored the urgency of tackling climate change and easing the debt burden on developing nations, among other global priorities.
The document’s strong climate focus was widely interpreted as a rebuke to US President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly dismissed the climate crisis as a “hoax.” Declarations are typically finalized at the close of G20 meetings, making this early adoption a notable shift.
South Africa hailed the move as a milestone for the continent, highlighting its commitment to bringing the concerns of poorer nations to the forefront of global discussions.
Despite the diplomatic breakthrough, the United States refused to participate in the two-day talks in Johannesburg, citing tensions with the host nation. The declaration, drafted without Washington’s involvement, drew criticism from the White House, which accused South Africa of exploiting its current leadership role in the group.
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