Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, has urged an end to speculation and conspiracy theories following the recent announcement by United States (US) President Donald Trump regarding the Group of 20 world leaders (G20) summit in South Africa.
Trump announced that he will not be attending the event in Johannesburg in November this year. US Vice President JD Vance is expected to attend instead.
This comes a month after Trump said it would be unlikely for him to attend, citing “problems” with South Africa and accusing Pretoria of having bad policies.
LAMOLA WELCOMES VANCE’S PARTICIPATION AT G20
Speaking to SABC News in Mpumalanga, Lamola said he welcomes Trump’s decision to send Vance in his place.
“We welcome this development. The US can assign anyone that President Trump deems necessary. We look forward to interacting with him [Vance] on the platforms of the G20,” Lamola said.
South Africa plans to host about 130 meetings of the working groups and task forces. They will take place in person and virtually across all provinces of the country.
SUMMIT STILL EXPECTED TO BE FRUITFUL, SAYS MINISTER
The minister added that the White House is free to share its own reasons for Trump’s decision not to attend. Lamola said he believes the G20 will be productive despite Trump’s absence.
Meanwhile, Trump announced that Washington will host the 2026 G20 summit at his Doral golf club in Florida, describing it as the best location for the event.
DO YOU THINK TRUMP’S ABSENCE WILL IMPACT SOUTH AFRICA’S G20 SUMMIT?
Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 11.
Subscribe to The South African website’s newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news
