Rubio’s Absence at G20 Meeting Highlights Tensions with South Africa

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will not attend the G20 meeting in Johannesburg after criticizing South African policies as anti-American. His absence reflects broader disengagement from global multilateralism under the Trump administration. While South Africa’s emphasis on solidarity and equality contrasts with U.S. interests, other nations remain optimistic about the G20’s effectiveness under South Africa’s leadership despite reduced American involvement.

United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio has chosen to forgo attendance at an upcoming G20 meeting in Johannesburg, South Africa, after publicly critiquing the host country’s policies as anti-American. This decision comes just as South Africa is set to host the two-day gathering of foreign ministers from influential nations, where discussions on critical global issues are anticipated.

Rubio is returning to the United States after leading diplomatic talks in the Middle East, specifically addressing the ongoing conflict in Ukraine with Russian officials. Despite the absence of the Secretary of State, the G20 meeting will proceed with participation from key European diplomats and representatives from China and Russia, albeit the U.S. will send a lower-ranking delegation.

Rubio’s absence reflects a broader trend of disengagement from multilateral organizations under the Trump administration, particularly due to differences regarding South Africa’s G20 presidency agenda, which emphasizes themes of solidarity and sustainability. The administration has criticized South Africa for its stance on issues such as climate change and for what it perceives as the nation’s anti-American foreign policy.

Earlier this month, Rubio announced on social media his intention to skip the main G20 summit scheduled for November, signaling his opposition to South Africa’s focus on diversity and inclusion frameworks. “My job is to advance America’s national interests, not waste taxpayer money or coddle anti-Americanism,” he remarked in his post.

This decision underscores a significant downturn in relations between the U.S. and South Africa, particularly as President Trump has recently halted U.S. aid in response to land laws viewed as discriminatory. Furthermore, the U.S. has voiced concerns regarding South Africa’s alignment with China and its criticisms of Israel.

Despite Rubio’s withdrawal, South Africa’s Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola indicated that U.S. representation will be present in some capacity, noting that Rubio’s choice does not equate to a complete boycott. Analysts remain optimistic regarding the potential success of the G20 under South African leadership, notwithstanding the reduced U.S. involvement.

Meanwhile, European allies have identified this meeting as an opportunity for affirming multilateralism, emphasizing inclusivity in the global diplomatic framework. “Multilateralism is under threat right now,” remarked EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas, emphasizing the necessity for collective global advancement.

In sum, Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s decision to skip the G20 meeting embodies a deteriorating relationship between the U.S. and South Africa, influenced by conflicting policies and diplomatic priorities. While the absence of the U.S. Secretary of State marks a shift in American engagement with multilateral efforts, South Africa continues to navigate its G20 presidency with significant international backing. The situation illustrates ongoing tensions within global diplomatic relations, particularly amidst challenges to multilateralism.

Original Source: apnews.com