Speaking at the SA-European Union (EU) meeting on Thursday, Ramaphosa confirmed that Washington has sent Pretoria a notice expressing interest to join the global gathering.
“We have received notice from the US, a notice that we are still in discussions with them over, over a change of mind about participating in one shape, form or other, in the summit. The discussions are still ongoing. This comes, really, at a late hour before the summit begins and therefore we do need to engage in those types of discussions to see how practical it is and what it finally really means,” he said.
Trump had earlier announced that the US would not attend the summit, adding that none of his officials would participate in any meetings. The US’s decision comes as world leaders, including Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese and EU Commission President, Ursula von der Leyen are expected to convene at a time of global uncertainty, with discussions expected to focus on poverty reduction, sustainable development and building resilience against economic shocks.
–SABC–
