The G20 summit hosted in Johannesburg, South Africa the first-ever G20 meeting to take place on African soil concluded with a strong joint declaration reaffirming global commitment to multilateral co-operation, climate resilience, and economic equality. This occurred despite the notable absence of the United States, after President Donald Trump chose to boycott the gathering.
The US president’s decision followed a widely discredited claim that South Africa’s white minority faces large-scale killings and land dispossession. His non-attendance overshadowed the summit’s start but ultimately did not derail negotiations.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said the final declaration demonstrated that “shared goals outweigh political differences.” He praised the unity shown by participating nations, crediting emerging leaders such as Indonesia, India, and Brazil, who have steered the summit in recent years.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva downplayed Trump’s absence, insisting that “multilateralism is more alive than ever.” Meanwhile, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz criticized the US decision, noting that the world is undergoing a “realignment” where new alliances are taking shape.
One of the summit’s key breakthroughs was the agreement to pursue “just, comprehensive, and lasting peace” in conflict zones, including Ukraine, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and the Occupied Palestinian Territory. Sudanese analyst Saeed Abdalla highlighted the significance of Sudan being placed prominently on the G20 agenda for the first time in over two years of conflict.
Although the ceremonial handover of the G20 presidency did not take place as scheduled, it is expected to occur next week through junior diplomatic officials. The US will assume the G20 presidency in 2026, with early indications suggesting the summit will be held at President Trump’s Florida golf resort.
Despite political tensions, the Johannesburg summit ultimately showcased a renewed global drive toward cooperation even in the face of division.
