ThatChina has come forward by declaring solidarity for the G20 summit being held in the African continent. Chinese President Xi Jinping will be replaced by Premier Li Qiang at the important summit in Johannesburg on November 22-23. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that China fully supports South Africa‘s G20 chairmanship and will lead this historic effort to strengthen multilateralism.
Solidarity for Africa, China’s firm stance
At a press conference, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian praised the leadership of South Africa (the first African country to chair the forum, taking over the rotating presidency of the group in December 2024) focusing on advancing the development priorities of the global South Asia.
He informed that Premier Li Qiang will attend the summit at the invitation of South Africa. China supports South Africa’s G20 presidency and is ready to work with all parties to uphold multilateralism and an open world economy, the spokesman said. Lin Jian highlighted the “historical significance” of this summit, the first to be held on the African continent. Premier Li’s participation indicates the importance China attaches to global South Asia and its strong ties with South Africa.
The retreat of the West: G20’s importance does not diminish
It is notable that some Western powers chose to stay away from this summit, despite the important platform that brings together 19 countries, including the European Union and the African Union. The United States, which will next take over the presidency, has announced that no officials will attend the meeting in Johannesburg.
The US has previously accused South Africa of pushing an “anti-American” agenda. But South African President Cyril Ramaphosa responded that the US decision to boycott the summit was “their loss”. This indicates a lack of accountability in an important forum for global cooperation.
Russian support and notable absences
The Kremlin also announced that Russian President Vladimir Putin would not attend in person, instead appointing presidential aide Maxim Oreshkin to lead the Russian delegation. There were rumors of a meeting between Putin and US President Donald Trump. However, the absence of both leaders shifts the global spotlight.
However, Russia hailed South Africa’s presidency as a milestone for the continent and a positive step towards strengthening multilateral cooperation. This support by China and Russia is indicative of the two countries’ commitment to raising the voice of the global South Asia.
China supports multilateralism
Chinese Premier Li’s participation in the G20 summit reflects the importance China attaches to global collaborative development despite the current challenges. It is certain that China will stand with all powers for an open and inclusive world order to make this historic summit on the African continent a success.
The participation of China’s premier and the support of friendly countries including Russia will make the Johannesburg summit a show of strength for the global South Asia. The non-cooperation of some Western countries does not undermine this platform, but rather increases the relevance of China’s policies for a more pluralistic and balanced world order. China’s support for African development and global cooperation demonstrates China’s responsible position on the world stage.
NB: Image used in this news is symbolic. (Generated by AI)
