US threatens South Africa over joint G20 declaration amid boycott

A Chair’s Statement is a document issued solely by the host or chair of a summit when participating countries are unable to reach full agreement on a joint communiqué.

Unlike a consensus communiqué which reflects a unified position endorsed by all member states, a Chair’s Statement records only the chair’s views or summary of discussions, without implying collective approval.

By insisting on this format, Washington effectively signaled that it would not endorse several of South Africa’s priorities for the summit, particularly Pretoria’s push for a more inclusive global governance agenda and stronger representation for developing nations

The warning further reflects rising tensions as the continent hosts the G20 for the first time, with South Africa pressing ahead despite U.S. opposition.

The diplomatic standoff between the two nations could complicate the smooth handover of G20 leadership from South Africa to the United States at the end of the year.

Despite Washington’s opposition, South Africa is pressing ahead with efforts to secure a joint statement at the summit, which concludes on Sunday.

Since September, U.S. President Donald Trump has voiced concerns over South Africa’s hosting of the G20 summit.

Trump further questioned South Africa’s continued G20 membership, citing doubts about its economic standing and implying that the country’s role in the forum was inconsequential.

South Africa, however, appears undeterred. Foreign ministry spokesman Chrispin Phiri expressed concern over what he described as “coercion by absence,” warning that excluding the U.S. from shaping the summit’s conclusions could lead to institutional paralysis.

“We cannot allow coercion by absentia to become a viable tactic,” he said. “It is a recipe for institutional paralysis and the breakdown of collective action.”

For Pretoria, a joint declaration is more than symbolic, it is central to its vision for an inclusive global order. South Africa is pressing for a statement that reflects its core agenda of solidarity, equality, and sustainability.

Brazil has reportedly expressed support, while some European officials have indicated they may back either a full declaration or a more modest chair’s summary.