The European Union has thrown its full weight behind South Africa’s leadership of the G20, reaffirming its support ahead of the upcoming foreign ministers’ summit in Johannesburg later this month.
The endorsement comes in the wake of a diplomatic standoff
Between South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and U.S. President Donald Trump, who recently froze American aid to the country.
Trump’s move stems from allegations that South Africa’s land reform policies enable the seizure of land from white farmers, claims that Johannesburg has repeatedly denied.
The controversy has been further fueled by South African-born billionaire Elon Musk, a vocal Trump ally, who has accused Ramaphosa’s administration of implementing “openly racist ownership laws.”
G20 Talks Under a Cloud of Dispute
Despite the tensions, South Africa is set to host G20 foreign ministers in Johannesburg on February 20-21, a significant diplomatic event.
However, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has announced his decision to boycott the meeting.
Citing concerns over what he called an “anti-American agenda” within the South African government.
In response, European Council President Antonio Costa reached out to Ramaphosa, assuring him of the EU’s unwavering support for South Africa’s leadership on the global stage.
“On my phone call with President Cyril Ramaphosa, I highlighted the EU’s commitment to deepen ties with South Africa, as a reliable and predictable partner,” Costa posted on X (formerly Twitter).
He further emphasized the EU’s endorsement of South Africa’s leadership at the G20,
Praising its ambition to strengthen multilateral cooperation and advance the Pact for the Future, a framework aimed at addressing pressing global challenges.
EU-South Africa Relations Strengthened
In a move to solidify diplomatic ties, Costa confirmed that a high-level EU-South Africa meeting is scheduled for March 13.
The meeting is expected to reaffirm the partnership between the two entities and explore new avenues for collaboration in global affairs.
As South Africa gears up to navigate its role on the world stage, the EU’s backing serves as a strategic boost amid rising geopolitical tensions.
Whether the U.S. stance will further strain international relations or encourage diplomatic resolutions remains to be seen.
