US Secretary of State Marco Rubio will not attend the upcoming G20 foreign ministers' meeting in South Africa, accusing the host government of promoting an 'anti-American' agenda. Rubio's decision stems from his disapproval of South Africa's land ownership reforms and its emphasis on 'solidarity, equality, and sustainability' within the G20 framework. South African officials have countered these accusations, affirming their commitment to democratic principles and highlighting the importance of equitable global systems.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced Wednesday that he would be skipping the Group of 20 ( G20 ) foreign ministers' talks in South Africa this month. Rubio's decision comes amid accusations that the South Africa n government harbors an 'anti-American' agenda. In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, Rubio mirrored the language of former President Donald Trump, stating that he would boycott the G20 meeting scheduled for February 20-21 in Johannesburg.
He cited South Africa's actions as justification, specifically mentioning the expropriation of private property and the government's promotion of 'solidarity, equality, & sustainability' within the G20 framework. Rubio further condemned these initiatives, labeling them as 'DEI and climate change,' reflecting a stance aligned with Trump's recent attacks on these concepts. He emphasized his primary responsibility as advancing America's national interests, stating that he would not waste taxpayer money or condone 'anti-Americanism.'South African officials, however, have responded to Rubio's accusations. Ronald Lamola, the Minister of International Relations and Co-Operation, issued a statement Thursday morning addressing Rubio's tweet. Lamola asserted South Africa's commitment to human dignity, equality, and rights, emphasizing the country's dedication to non-racialism and non-sexism. He emphasized that land ownership reforms are conducted within the framework of the constitution and the rule of law, rejecting any notion of arbitrary land dispossession. Lamola explained that the concept of 'solidarity/Ubuntu' promotes collective problem-solving and highlighted that South Africa's G20 presidency aims to encompass not only climate change but also equitable treatment for nations in the Global South, striving for a more equal global system. He expressed openness to engaging with the United States on these important principles.The absence of the United States, a prominent economic powerhouse, from the G20 meeting would undoubtedly be a significant setback. The G20 forum is designed to represent the world's leading economies, and its effectiveness relies heavily on the participation of major players. The meeting presented a potential opportunity for Rubio to engage with his Russian counterpart, Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, especially given Trump's recent emphasis on pursuing diplomatic channels regarding the Ukraine war. However, Rubio's decision to boycott highlights the escalating tensions between the United States and South Africa, further complicating the global political landscape
G20 Marco Rubio South Africa Anti-Americanism Land Expropriation Diplomacy Ukraine War
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