The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, says preparations for the G20 Leaders’ Summit are on track, with numerous Heads of State and Government from G20 member countries and invited guest nations confirmed to attend.
South Africa assumed the presidency of the G20 in November 2024, becoming the first African country to lead the global forum, and will host the Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg from 22 to 23 November. The event will take place at the Nasrec Expo Centre under the theme “Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability,” reflecting South Africa’s focus on inclusive growth, global cooperation and sustainable development.
South Africa was expected to hand over the G20 presidency to the United States later this year, but the U.S. will not be officially represented after President Donald Trump indicated that no government officials from Washington would attend the summit. The absence of a U.S. delegation is notable, given the country’s economic weight within the G20, and comes amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
Other leaders who will not attend include Argentinian President Javier Milei and Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo, both of whom are expected to send senior cabinet members to represent their countries.
Despite these absences, Lamola said a total of 42 countries are confirmed to participate at various levels. This includes 20 G20 members (excluding the United States), 16 guest countries, and six countries representing regional economic communities in Africa, the Caribbean, and East Asia.
The government has expressed confidence in the country’s readiness to host the summit, noting that more than 100 preparatory meetings have been held throughout the year. Authorities say the gathering is expected to boost economic activity in several sectors, including tourism, hospitality, transport, and logistics, with thousands of delegates, media, and support staff travelling to Johannesburg for the event.
Comprehensive safety and logistical plans have been put in place, involving national, provincial and local structures. In the days leading up to the summit, road closures will be implemented in and around the Nasrec Expo Centre and OR Tambo International Airport, as well as other parts of Johannesburg, to manage traffic flow and enhance security for incoming delegations.
As host, South Africa will lead discussions on global economic cooperation, climate change, energy transitions and debt sustainability, while also using its presidency to amplify African priorities within the G20 framework.
