G20 Ministers Meet in South Africa, Rubio Boycotts

The G20 foreign ministers' meeting in South Africa is set to address pressing global issues, including the situations in Gaza and Ukraine, while representatives from the Global South seek discussions on necessary reforms, climate change, and economic equity. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will not attend, citing South Africa's 'anti-American' policies and its focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion as the conference's agenda. Rubio's absence reflects ongoing tensions between the U.S. and South Africa, exacerbated by the South African land restitution law and Pretoria's legal actions against Israel at the International Court of Justice. Despite the boycott, U.S. diplomatic representation will continue through an embassy diplomat. South African officials have emphasized that their G20 presidency aims to address broader concerns, including the needs of developing nations. This meeting marks a significant moment as it is the first time an African country holds the G20 presidency, highlighting the continent's role in global discussions.