Speaking at the G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting in Johannesburg, Ramaphosa underscored SA’s unwavering dedication to diplomatic engagement with the US, despite the absence of Secretary of State Antony Blinken. He clarified that the US’ absence was not a deliberate snub, making it clear that lower-level US officials are still attending the talks.
Ramaphosa highlighted the importance of the US as SA’s second-largest trading partner, with deep ties spanning political, trade, and diplomatic spheres. “We live in an interconnected world. No country can isolate itself, and SA will continue to collaborate with the US on various fronts,” he stated.
The absence of the US Secretary of State at such a pivotal meeting has sparked debate about the state of US-South Africa relations. Professor Malusi Mncube from the University of Johannesburg weighed in, acknowledging that the US’s decision to send a lower-ranking representative sends a message about the US’s discomfort with SA’s international stance. “While it’s not a direct snub, it reflects a subtle dissatisfaction with SA’s foreign policy choices,” Mncube commented. “But the G20 will continue to advance its agenda regardless.”
In parallel, Professor Oscar Van Hilden, a senior academic at the University of Johannesburg, urged South Africans to stay resilient amid a rapidly changing global landscape. He pointed to the weaponisation of the US Dollar as a global economic tool and warned that the US’s economic influence may be contributing to instability in global markets.
The G20 summit also saw notable developments as Nigeria and Egypt were officially inducted as permanent invitees, adding to Africa’s growing influence in global economic discussions. Meanwhile, several African nations were invited to participate in the G20’s eighth cycle in Johannesburg, with Executive Mayor of Tshwane, Dr Nasiphi Moya, highlighting the opportunity for Africa to influence discussions on urban development and climate change.
As the digital age unfolds, there are growing calls from African entrepreneurs for policies that prioritise artificial intelligence (AI), with leaders like Tholang Mathopa, Chief Executive Officer of Leriba AI, urging a shift towards AI solutions tailored to Africa’s unique challenges.
–ChannelAfrica–
