By: Xolani Khumalo
Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) Director-General Zane Dangor says the decision by the United States not to invite South Africa to the first meeting of the G20 sherpas is a breach of protocol.
The US formally assumed the G20 Presidency from South Africa on Monday, a transition that ordinarily involves close coordination between the outgoing and incoming presidencies. In usual G20 practice, the outgoing host participates in the opening sherpa meetings to support continuity of work streams, handover of priority areas and logistical planning for the year ahead.
Dangor told Parliament that South Africa learnt of the upcoming meeting, which is set to take place in Washington later this month, from sherpas representing other member states. According to Dangor, these officials also expressed their concern about South Africa being excluded, noting that such omissions undermine established norms intended to safeguard transparency and cooperation within the G20 process.
He added that DIRCO is addressing the matter through diplomatic channels. The department maintains that adherence to agreed procedures is essential for the credibility of the G20, particularly at a time when global coordination on economic stability, development financing, and multilateral reform remains a priority.
