South Africa will proceed with the ceremonial transfer of G20 leadership to the United States despite American officials declining to attend the Johannesburg summit, according to International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola. The handover remains largely symbolic, and participating nations will adopt the Johannesburg Leaders' Declaration to prevent institutional paralysis. President Donald Trump cited disputed claims regarding the treatment of white citizens as the reason for the American boycott.
Forty-two countries and organizations have confirmed participation at various levels for the gathering at the Nasrec Expo Centre, though Russia, Mexico, Argentina, and China will send ministerial representatives rather than heads of state. Lamola noted that Chinese President Xi Jinping's scheduling conflicts prompted Premier Li Qiang's attendance instead.
The G20 Social Summit at Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg will welcome approximately 5,000 participants from civil society groups to address issues including hunger, climate justice, employment, and digital inclusion before the main leaders' sessions begin.
Forty-two countries and organizations have confirmed participation at various levels for the gathering at the Nasrec Expo Centre, though Russia, Mexico, Argentina, and China will send ministerial representatives rather than heads of state. Lamola noted that Chinese President Xi Jinping's scheduling conflicts prompted Premier Li Qiang's attendance instead.
The G20 Social Summit at Birchwood Hotel in Boksburg will welcome approximately 5,000 participants from civil society groups to address issues including hunger, climate justice, employment, and digital inclusion before the main leaders' sessions begin.
