New Tech Partnership
The G20 Summit in Johannesburg has unfolded amid sharp geopolitical tensions, with the United States boycotting the event and South Africa refusing to hand over the G20 presidency to a U.S. embassy representative. The absence of U.S. President Donald Trump has overshadowed the summit’s agenda, intensifying discord over climate policy and global security issues.
U.S. Boycott Sparks Diplomatic Standoff
South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola confirmed that President Cyril Ramaphosa would not hand over the G20 presidency to a chargé d’affaires sent by Washington, insisting the transition must occur at an appropriate “head-of-state or ministerial level.”
The White House accused South Africa of undermining G20 principles after a climate-focused declaration was adopted despite U.S. objections.
Climate and Security Divide
In a rare move, the G20 adopted a leaders’ declaration—crafted without U.S. participation—calling for nations to refrain from the use of force for territorial gains and emphasizing climate action, debt relief, and global cooperation.
European leaders, Canada, and Japan jointly rejected Trump’s unilateral Ukraine peace proposal, arguing it requires “additional work” and could leave Kyiv vulnerable.
French President Emmanuel Macron warned that the G20 “may be coming to the end of a cycle” as global divisions widen.
India Unveils Trilateral Tech Partnership
Amid the turbulence, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a significant new Australia–Canada–India Technology and Innovation (ACITI) Partnership.
The initiative aims to boost collaboration in emerging technologies, diversify supply chains, and accelerate clean energy and AI adoption across the three democracies.
Draft Declaration Moves Forward Without the U.S.
South Africa confirmed that a strong consensus had been reached on a draft declaration featuring commitments to green energy transition and debt relief for developing states. Analysts suggest the U.S. boycott may have strengthened cooperation among the remaining members.
Summit Marked by Persistent Global Fractures
With disputes over climate policy, the Ukraine conflict, humanitarian concerns in Gaza, and leadership uncertainty, the summit has highlighted the fragile state of international cooperation.
Held in Africa for the first time, the Johannesburg summit reflects both the rising influence of the Global South and the growing challenges facing multilateral institutions.
