U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will not attend the G20 meeting in South Africa, criticizing its policies as anti-American. His decision reflects strained U.S.-South Africa relations and a shift away from traditional U.S. engagement in international cooperation. Analysts believe South Africa can still lead the G20 effectively despite Rubio’s absence and the reduced U.S. participation.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is set to forgo the upcoming G20 meeting in Johannesburg, scheduled for February 20-21, after labeling South Africa’s policies as anti-American. This decision comes on the heels of Rubio’s travels in the Middle East, where he engaged in discussions regarding the conflict in Ukraine. His absence marks a departure from traditional U.S. engagement at international summits and suggests increasing tensions between the U.S. and South Africa.
Rubio’s criticism targeted South Africa’s G20 presidency themes of “solidarity, equality, sustainability,” which he believes detract from American interests. He has openly rejected their focus on issues like climate change and inclusivity, asserting that his responsibility is to safeguard national interests rather than support what he deems anti-American sentiments. He indicated that he would also skip the main G20 summit in November, further emphasizing his disapproval of South Africa’s agenda.
The U.S. withdrawal from the G20 meeting underscores strained relations between the two nations, especially after President Trump signed an executive order halting aid due to South Africa’s controversial land law and its perceived alignment with China. South Africa’s foreign minister, Ronald Lamola, attempted to downplay Rubio’s absence by stating it does not amount to a full boycott of the G20 presidency.
Despite the U.S. decision, analysts believe that South Africa can still foster progress within the G20 framework. Major global players, including the EU, Russia, and China, continue to express support for South Africa’s leadership. As articulated by Kaja Kallas, the EU foreign policy chief, a cooperative atmosphere remains crucial for advancing multilateral efforts in today’s geopolitically challenging climate, confirming the importance of inclusivity in global dialogues.
In conclusion, Secretary Marco Rubio’s decision to skip the G20 meeting in South Africa reflects growing tensions between the U.S. and the host nation, stemming from conflicting political values and policies. His absence, coupled with the broader implications of strained bilateral relations, highlights potential challenges to multilateral cooperation in the context of the evolving global political landscape. Nonetheless, key global players remain optimistic about the potential for meaningful dialogue under South Africa’s G20 presidency despite U.S. disengagement.
Original Source: apnews.com
