CANADA has reiterated its commitment to enhancing diplomatic engagement with African nations, particularly as South Africa leads the G20 for the first time. Canadian Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly emphasised her country’s dedication to fostering stronger relationships, using the G7 and G20 platforms to expand global cooperation.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Joly confirmed her discussions with South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola, expressing Canada’s support for South Africa’s historic G20 presidency. South Africa officially assumed the one-year rotational leadership in December 2023, marking a significant milestone as the first African nation to head the group of the world’s largest economies.
‘South Africa is the G20’s first African President, while Canada holds the G7 Presidency,’ Joly stated, underscoring the potential for collaboration on pressing global issues.
Lamola welcomed the engagement, stating he looks forward to further discussions and the upcoming G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Johannesburg from February 20-21.
Growing global support for South Africa’s leadership
Canada is not alone in acknowledging South Africa’s role in shaping international policies. This week, European Council President António Costa reaffirmed the European Union’s full support for South Africa’s G20 leadership during a phone conversation with President Cyril Ramaphosa.
‘I highlighted the EU’s commitment to deepening ties with South Africa as a reliable and predictable partner,’ Costa stated, confirming that the South Africa-EU bilateral summit will take place on March 13. He further emphasised the EU’s commitment to multilateral cooperation, backing South Africa’s Pact for the Future initiative, aimed at tackling urgent global challenges.
Ramaphosa echoed these sentiments, stressing that South Africa and the EU share democratic values and a commitment to human rights, dignity, and equality. He expressed optimism about consolidating bilateral partnerships and advancing discussions on regional, continental, and global issues.
China has also joined the list of countries supporting South Africa’s leadership. On Wednesday, China’s Foreign Ministry confirmed that Foreign Minister Wang Yi will attend the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Johannesburg, signifying Beijing’s endorsement of South Africa’s presidency.
US distances itself over policy disagreements
While South Africa has gained backing from key global players, the United States has taken a different stance. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that he would not attend the G20 meeting in Johannesburg, citing concerns over South Africa’s policies.
This follows a series of diplomatic tensions between South Africa and the US. Last week, US President Donald Trump threatened to cut foreign aid to Pretoria, citing alleged land confiscation policies and the treatment of ‘certain classes of people.’ Shortly after, Trump signed an executive order freezing funds to South Africa over its land expropriation law and its role in the genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The diplomatic divide between South Africa and the US contrasts sharply with the support from Canada, the EU, and China, highlighting the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding South Africa’s G20 presidency.
A defining moment for Africa’s global influence
South Africa’s leadership of the G20 marks a historic milestone for Africa, positioning the continent as a central player in global economic and diplomatic affairs. While Canada, the EU, and China have pledged their backing, the US’s decision to distance itself raises questions about the future of its engagement with South Africa and broader African policy.
As South Africa prepares to host world leaders at the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, its presidency will be closely watched for how it navigates global challenges, strengthens regional cooperation, and asserts Africa’s influence on the world stage.
