G20 Summit Faces Declaration Crisis as US Requests No Formal Agreement

The upcoming G20 Summit in Johannesburg faces potential disruption. The United States has formally requested that no joint declaration be adopted. This unexpected move comes just days before global leaders are set to gather. South Africa holds the presidency for this year’s critical meetings.

According to South African G20 representative Xolisa Mabhongo, the US communicated its preference over the weekend. The request is linked to the US delegation’s planned absence from the summit. However, the final decision does not rest with South Africa alone.

G20 Summit Declaration Hinges on Collective Decision

Mabhongo clarified the process in an interview with SABC. He stated that the G20 is a group of 19 nations plus the European Union and African Union. The presidency guides the discussions but must reflect the collective views of all members.

“No country can just make an appeal to the presidency and say: ‘I’m not in your meeting so don’t have a declaration,'” Mabhongo explained. He emphasized that the US request is not automatically binding. The mood among other participating nations remains positive and cooperative.

The ongoing Sherpas meetings have not yet encountered major difficulties on this issue. Delegates are working to ensure the Johannesburg Summit produces a meaningful outcome. The absence of the US is noted, but it is their choice not to attend.

South Africa Defends G20 Agenda and Priorities

Mabhongo also addressed claims that South Africa overloaded the G20 agenda. He stated that the presiding nation has the prerogative to set priorities for its term. South Africa outlined four key areas for discussion when it took over the presidency.

These priorities include a Just Energy Transition and addressing debt burdens. The initiatives are designed for long-term discussion beyond any single presidency. An internal review of the G20’s effectiveness was also appreciated by members.

The review concluded that the G20 remains a vital international forum. Mabhongo suggested such evaluations should occur more frequently, perhaps every five years. This ensures the group remains focused and achieves its goals.

The final outcome of the G20 Summit regarding a joint declaration remains uncertain, hinging on the consensus of all members present. The situation underscores the complex diplomatic challenges of multilateral forums, especially when a key player like the United States opts not to participate directly. The world now watches to see if the G20 Summit can forge a path forward without a unifying statement.

Info at your fingertips

Q1: Why does the US not want a G20 declaration?

The United States has not publicly detailed its reasons. The request was made in the context of their delegation’s absence from the upcoming summit in Johannesburg.

Q2: Can the G20 still issue a declaration without the US?

Yes, the G20 can adopt a declaration based on the consensus of the members present and participating. The US request is a preference, not a veto, as the decision rests with the collective group.

Q3: What are South Africa’s main goals for the summit?

South Africa’s presidency focuses on four priorities. These include a Just Energy Transition, addressing debt in developing nations, disaster risk reduction, and the governance of critical minerals.

Q4: How have other G20 members reacted to the US request?

According to South African officials, the mood among other delegates remains positive and cooperative. The Sherpas meetings have proceeded without major challenges related to this issue so far.

Q5: What is the role of the G20 Sherpa?

A G20 Sherpa is the personal representative of a head of state. They negotiate the summit’s agenda and draft statements, working behind the scenes to prepare for the leaders’ meeting.