
Sat Nov 22 09:38:03 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
Summary:
The G20 Leaders’ Summit in Johannesburg opened with the adoption of a Declaration, a move hailed by South Africa as a revolutionary affirmation of multilateralism for the African continent. The Declaration was adopted early in the summit, despite reported U.S. attempts to block it. South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola emphasized that the G20 would proceed with its agenda regardless of U.S. participation, asserting that cooperation and consensus among the remaining members are paramount. While acknowledging the importance of the U.S. as a major trading partner, Lamola stressed South Africa’s commitment to standing firm on key issues, including the denial of genocide claims. The Declaration included provisions on debt sustainability, although some points required compromise during negotiations.
News Article:
G20 Leaders Adopt Declaration in Johannesburg Despite Reported U.S. Opposition
Johannesburg, South Africa – In a move hailed as revolutionary for the African continent, G20 leaders attending the summit in Johannesburg adopted a Declaration on Saturday, November 22, 2025. The adoption occurred at the start of the two-day summit, an unusual move according to officials.
South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola lauded the Declaration as a triumph of multilateralism, emphasizing that the G20 could not be held hostage by the absence of a single member, alluding to reported U.S. efforts to obstruct the agreement.
“The G20 is not about the US. It is about all the 21 members of the G20,” Lamola stated. “Those of us who are here have decided this is where the world must go and that is what is going to happen.”
While acknowledging the importance of the U.S. as South Africa’s second-largest trading partner, Lamola made it clear that South Africa would stand firm on critical issues. He specifically addressed claims of genocide against white farmers, reiterating the government’s position that no such genocide exists, although South Africa acknowledges general challenges with crime.
The Declaration includes provisions for debt sustainability, a key priority for South Africa. The negotiation process required compromise.