South Africa Rebuffs US Over G20 Presidency Handover in Diplomatic Snub

A diplomatic dispute has erupted at the G20 summit in South Africa. The host nation refused to formally hand over the presidency to the United States. South Africa cited the low rank of the US representative as the reason.

The incident follows a US decision to boycott the main summit events. According to Reuters, the controversy stems from President Donald Trump‘s criticism of South Africa’s domestic policies.

Protocol Dispute Halts Traditional Ceremony

The United States is scheduled to assume the G20 presidency for 2026. The handover is traditionally a key moment at the summit’s conclusion. South Africa broke with this custom.

Officials deemed the US diplomat sent for the handover too “junior”. The host expected a head of state, special envoy, or at least a minister. South Africa’s foreign minister, Ronald Lamola, stated the US could send anyone at the “right level”.

This level was clearly not met in their view. The handover ceremony was therefore canceled. It may occur later at a foreign ministry building instead.

Underlying Tensions Fuel Diplomatic Clash

The disagreement is rooted in a broader political conflict. President Trump boycotted the summit over claims of “racist and anti-White” policies in South Africa. He specifically mentioned the treatment of the Afrikaner minority.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa claimed the US later tried to rejoin the summit. The White House firmly denied this accusation. A spokesperson said US officials only planned to attend the formal handover.

South Africa also broke another summit tradition. It released the leaders’ declaration on the opening day. This usually happens when the event concludes. The US had reportedly objected to the declaration’s focus on climate and inequality.

The G20 summit has concluded, but the diplomatic rift remains unresolved. This incident underscores the fragile nature of international cooperation and the critical importance of diplomatic protocol in global affairs.

Thought you’d like to know

Why did South Africa refuse the G20 handover?

South Africa refused because it considered the US representative to be too junior. The host nation expected a head of state, special envoy, or a minister-level official for the significant ceremony.

What was the US response to the snub?

The White House had previously denied trying to rejoin the summit itself. It stated its officials only intended to be present for the presidency handover ceremony that ultimately did not occur.

Why did the US boycott the G20 summit?

President Donald Trump boycotted the event over accusations that South Africa pursues “racist and anti-White” policies. He specifically cited the treatment of the country’s White Afrikaner minority community.

How did South Africa change the usual G20 process?

South Africa broke with tradition by releasing the leaders’ declaration on the summit’s opening day. This document is normally issued at the very end of the proceedings.

When will the US assume the G20 presidency?

The United States is still scheduled to take over the G20 presidency for the year 2026. The delayed handover ceremony does not change this upcoming responsibility.