South Africa Faces G20 Challenges Amid U.S. Tensions

South Africa, presiding over the G20 for the first time, emphasizes multilateralism and international law as essential to addressing global issues, amid tensions with the U.S. over its 'America First' policy. The G20 Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Johannesburg is marked by the absence of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who criticized South Africa's agenda and policies. Despite the lack of U.S. participation, South Africa remains committed to its theme of 'Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,' and has received support from China, which pledges solidarity and trade collaboration. The U.S. has not responded to South Africa's attempts to discuss the aid cut initiated by President Trump, who disapproves of South Africa's land reform policies and its legal actions against Israel. South Africa continues to seek dialogue with the U.S. while strengthening ties with other nations. The strained relations raise concerns about future economic ties under the U.S. African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).