The G20 foreign ministers’ meeting in Johannesburg focused on global conflicts, particularly the Russia-Ukraine war. South Africa emphasized the importance of dialogue and peace initiatives amid the absence of a significant U.S. delegation. Minister Ronald Lamola reiterated the need for inclusive negotiations, while representatives voiced concerns about the broader impact of conflicts, particularly on Africa’s economic situation. A G20 Leaders’ Summit is set for November.
Foreign ministers from the G20 nations convened in Johannesburg, South Africa, on February 21, 2025, to address various global conflicts, with a primary focus on the ongoing war in Ukraine. This two-day meeting notably occurred without a significant U.S. delegation, prompting South African officials to assure that discussions remained productive under the attendance of acting U.S. ambassador Dana Brown.
South Africa, hosting the G20 for the first time as an African nation, emphasized the necessity for serious dialogue in light of wars, climate issues, and food insecurities. President Cyril Ramaphosa remarked on the importance of addressing these pressing challenges during the discussions.
After the meeting, South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola highlighted that several global conflicts hinder economic progress, mentioning wars in Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. He emphasized unity among nations in accordance with the principles of the U.N. charter and reiterated support for peace initiatives in various conflict zones, including Ukraine and Gaza.
Lamola confirmed that President Ramaphosa extended an invitation to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a state visit, supporting Ukraine’s inclusion in peace negotiations. He stated, “We still think that any peace negotiation process should be inclusive and that inclusiveness should then include Ukraine very clearly.”
Differing views emerged regarding the war in Ukraine; Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov blamed Western nations for the conflict, while U.K. diplomat David Lammy expressed skepticism about Russia’s intentions for peace. Conversely, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot warned that Ukraine’s potential capitulation would pose risks for other nations facing aggression.
Claver Gatete, a representative from the U.N.’s economic commission for Africa, pointed out that global conflicts have far-reaching consequences for African nations, especially regarding inflation and food prices exacerbated by the war in Ukraine.
The upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit in November 2025 will assemble heads of state from member countries, further emphasizing South Africa’s critical role within the G20 framework and its commitment to addressing significant global issues.
The G20 meeting in Johannesburg served as a pivotal forum for discussing global conflicts, predominantly the Russia-Ukraine war. The absence of a significant U.S. delegation raised concerns, but South African officials maintained that important dialogues continued. The meeting highlighted a collective desire for inclusive peace negotiations and underscored the broader implications of global conflicts on economic stability, particularly in Africa. The planned G20 Leaders’ Summit later in the year will provide an opportunity for further deliberation among member nations.
Original Source: apnews.com
