G20 summit in South Africa adopts declaration despite US boycott

The G20 summit in Johannesburg, chaired this year by South Africa, ended with the adoption of a final declaration - despite a boycott by the United States. The document focuses on the climate crisis, the promotion of renewable resources and the alleviation of the debt burden of developing countries.

The US, led by President Donald Trump's administration, rejected the text because of references to climate change, which Washington has long questioned.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described the declaration as the result of a year-long effort and insisted it would not be reopened for negotiation. He also rejected handing over the G20 presidency to the US chargé d'affaires, which he said would devalue the importance of the African presidency.

South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola stressed that the summit is a platform for all 21 members, not just the US.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned against "exploiting dependencies", an apparent reference to China.

Thus, despite geopolitical tensions, the summit confirmed the will of most G20 leaders to work together on climate challenges and global solidarity - and signalled the growing self-confidence of the global South.

(reuters, swag)