The Ministry of External Affairs said the Prime Minister will also hold bilateral meetings with several world leaders and attend the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) forum. Modi described the summit as an opportunity to advance discussions on major global issues, noting that South Africa has built this year’s theme“Solidarity, Equality, and Sustainability” on outcomes from the last summits held in New Delhi and Rio de Janeiro.
Before leaving New Delhi, Modi said India would reiterate its vision of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam “one family, one future”—and highlighted the significance of the African Union’s G20 membership formalized during India’s presidency in 2023. This is his fourth official visit to South Africa, following earlier trips in 2016, 2018, and 2023.
The summit is being held under the presidency of South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, who invited Modi to attend.
Meanwhile, the United States will not be represented at the event after President Donald Trump announced a boycott, alleging human rights violations in South Africa and claiming white farmers were being persecuted. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also declined to attend, citing South Africa’s “anti-American stance.” South Africa has dismissed the concerns, saying G20’s functioning is not dependent on any single nation.
Formed in 1999 and elevated to leaders’ level in 2008, the G20 represents the world’s major economies, accounting for 85% of global GDP and 75% of global trade. The summit will deliberate on economic stability, geopolitical tensions, and developmental cooperation, with several critical engagements lined up over the next three days.
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