The upcoming G20 summit in Johannesburg is set to take place without US President Donald Trump, who has opted to send Vice President JD Vance in his place. This decision comes amid strained relations between Trump and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who will host the event. The two leaders had a tense meeting at the White House earlier this year, during which Trump reiterated unfounded allegations of genocide against white farmers in South Africa. Ramaphosa’s government has consistently denied that the violence affecting farmers is racially motivated.

The US has taken several measures against South Africa, including suspending financial aid and imposing 30 percent tariffs on the country’s exports. Trump has also criticized South Africa’s stance on the Israel-Hamas conflict. In March, South African Ambassador Ebrahim Rasool was expelled from the US due to his criticism of Trump. Additionally, the Afrikaans trade union Solidariteit plans to visit the US in September to discuss issues such as racial-redress laws and trade agreements with the Department of State.

Despite the absence of President Trump, South African officials have welcomed Vice President Vance’s participation in the summit. They emphasize that the success of the event lies in substantive discussions rather than the presence of individual leaders. The G20 summit, which comprises the world’s largest economies, including 19 countries and the European and African Unions, aims to discuss global economic policies. This year’s theme, Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability, will be the first time the summit is held on the African continent.

The G20 summit provides a platform for world leaders to address pressing global issues, and this year’s event is expected to focus on topics such as economic growth, trade, and sustainable development. With Vice President Vance representing the US, the summit is likely to proceed with a focus on constructive dialogue and cooperation among participating nations. The outcomes of the summit will be closely watched, as they have the potential to shape global economic policies and foster international cooperation. As the international community gathers in Johannesburg, the significance of the summit will be reinforced, and the next steps for global economic collaboration will be outlined.