President Cyril Ramaphosa has reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to the G20, rejecting threats by US President Donald Trump to exclude the country from next year’s summit scheduled to take place in Florida, USA.
In a national address on Sunday evening, following what he described as a “successful” G20 Summit hosted by South Africa, Ramaphosa said the country’s participation in the group is non-negotiable.
“South Africa is one of the founding members of the G20 and is therefore a member in its own name and right. We will continue to participate as a full, active, and constructive member of the G20,” he said.
Ramaphosa criticised Trump for relying on misinformation regarding alleged genocide against Afrikaners and land confiscation from white citizens, calling the claims “regrettable”. The US president reportedly refused to send representatives to the Johannesburg summit despite earlier commitments.
Ramaphosa said the US also opposed the adoption of the G20 declaration, which included discussions on climate change, debt reform and multilateralism.
Last week, South Africa officially handed over the G20 presidency for 2026 to the United States during a low-key ceremony at the Department of International Relations and Cooperation in Pretoria.
The president condemned “groups and individuals” who he believes are driving disinformation campaigns that damage South Africa’s global standing and economic interests.
“These people are endangering and undermining South Africa’s national interests, destroying jobs, and weakening relations with one of our most important partners,” he warned.
“We must remind them that South Africa is a constitutional democracy, with a Bill of Rights that guarantees equality under the law.”
He invited critics to bring their concerns to the National Dialogue rather than spreading falsehoods.
Ramaphosa praised citizens and stakeholders for helping to host the series of G20 meetings throughout the year, culminating in the Leaders’ Summit.
He reported signs of economic recovery, noting improvements in employment figures, enhanced public finances and a recent sovereign credit rating upgrade.
The president also highlighted collaboration efforts to address major social challenges, including crime and gender-based violence.
“Just over a week ago, we classified gender-based violence and femicide as a national disaster. This allows us to intensify efforts to end this pandemic,” he said.
Ramaphosa reiterated that despite “misunderstandings and challenges”, South Africa remains “a firm and unwavering friend of the American people”.
