Johannesburg: The US and South Africa are currently in discussions regarding Washington's involvement in the upcoming G20 Leaders' Summit, following what has been described as a 'change of mind' from the American side, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa announced recently.

According to Anadolu Agency, several global leaders have confirmed their attendance at the summit scheduled for November 22-23 in Johannesburg. However, US President Donald Trump had initially declared that no American representative would be present, citing alleged 'human rights abuses' by South Africa against its white Afrikaner minority as the reason for the absence.

President Ramaphosa mentioned during an EU-South Africa leaders' meeting, which included EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU Council President Antonio Costa, that discussions with the US are ongoing. The South African leader expressed optimism, stating that the change in the US stance is a 'positive sign' and highlighting the importance of the US, as the 'biggest economy in the world,' participating in the summit.

Ramaphosa emphasized the significance of engaging in dialogue, remarking, "Boycott politics never work." He further stated the advantages of being involved in discussions, noting, "It's always best to be inside the tent than being outside of the tent." The president concluded by noting his satisfaction with the shift in the US's approach and expressed hope for the outcome of the ongoing discussions.