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Radio France Internationale
Radio France Internationale
World
RFI

South Africa confirms temporary withdrawal from the G20, as US takes the helm

South Africa's Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, speaks at a press conference during the G20, in Johannesburg on 22 November, 2025. AFP - LUDOVIC MARIN

South Africa has decided to "temporarily withdraw" from the G20, after a request by the United States. Washington takes on the rotating presidency for the year 2026, following on from South Africa in 2025. This comes after more than a year of bilateral tensions which Pretoria hopes to ease by taking a step back.

The climate of tension has been growing since January 2025, climaxing last November, when US President Donald Trump boycotted the G20 summit held in South Africa, accusing the country of pursuing policies hostile to American interests.

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