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President Cyril Ramaphosa states that South Africa has been informed by the United States about a potential shift in its stance on involvement in the G20 Leaders’ Summit, which he refers to as a “very positive” development.

During a press conference after his trilateral meeting with European Council President António Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, President Ramaphosa stated that talks with Washington are still in progress.

READ | President Ramaphosa, European Union officials reaffirm the strengthening of collaborations

“We have been informed by the United States, and we are still discussing with them regarding their reconsideration of participation in the Summit in some form or another,” he stated on Thursday evening.

President Ramaphosa mentioned that the message from the United States arrived mere hours before the commencement of the Leaders’ Summit, leading to immediate discussions to grasp the significance and feasibility of its possible involvement.

“This arrives very late just before the Summit starts, and therefore we must engage in those kinds of discussions to determine how feasible it is and what it ultimately signifies,” he said.

Although the timing was questionable, the President maintained a positive outlook, stating that South Africa saw the change as promising.

“In a sense, we view this as a favorable development, highly positive since, as I have frequently mentioned, boycott strategies are never effective. It is always better to be within the tent rather than outside of it,” the President stated.

He highlighted the significance of the United States’ role in global governance systems, stating that its involvement enhances collaborative efforts among nations.

“The tent is G20, all nations are present and the United States, as the largest economy globally, must be here. Therefore, it’s encouraging to learn that there has been a shift in strategy, and we are still exploring how this will take shape,” he stated.

President Ramaphosa is set to maintain high-level interactions with international allies as the G20 Leaders’ Summit approaches this weekend.

Earlier in the day, the President stated that the G20 process is progressing firmly, regardless of the United States, following US President Donald Trump’s warning to prevent the approval of any joint statement during South Africa’s G20 leadership.

Speaking to journalists as he departed the G20 Social Summit to speak at the B20 meeting, President Ramaphosa showed confidence that discussions were close to being finalized, even though the United States had raised concerns.

READ | A statement will be made, President Ramaphosa says before the G20 Summit.

He also informed reporters that he was pleased with the advancements achieved in various G20 areas, commending the discussions he participated in during the day.

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