G20 2025: SA’s Dawie Roodt Sees Strong Progress Despite US No-Show

South Africa’s presidency of the G20 is off to a promising start, according to Efficient Group’s Chief Economist, Dawie Roodt. Speaking on the sidelines of the ongoing G20 meetings, Roodt said there’s already “great progress” being made, with strong international cooperation and new business relationships being forged.

South Africa assumed the G20 Presidency on December 1, 2024, and will lead the forum until November 2025. Under its leadership, the G20 aims to advance global collaboration on major challenges such as climate finance, trade, technology, and inclusive development.

“So far, the G20 meetings are showing great commitment from member countries,” said Roodt. “There’s momentum building to create real business opportunities and foster stronger economic ties globally.”

US Absence Not a Major Setback

Roodt did, however, point to one notable absence — the United States did not attend the G20 Development Working Group meeting this year. He confirmed that the US Secretary of State was expected but ultimately did not participate.

“It’s unfortunate that the US Foreign Affairs Minister didn’t attend, especially since the US is set to assume the G20 Presidency after South Africa,” he said.

Still, Roodt played down the potential impact of the US no-show.

“The absence doesn’t necessarily mean there will be a negative effect on business relations or diplomatic ties,” he noted. “Most G20 countries are on board, and that in itself is a strong indicator of global commitment.”

Hopes for Presidential Engagement

Looking ahead, Roodt expressed hope that the President of the United States will attend the main G20 summit in November 2025. He believes such a high-level presence would help mend what he described as an “unstable” relationship between South Africa and the US in recent years.

“Engagement at the highest level could go a long way in rebuilding mutual trust and cooperation,” said Roodt.

A Crucial Year for Global Cooperation

The G20, which includes the world’s largest economies, plays a pivotal role in setting the agenda for international economic cooperation. South Africa’s leadership comes at a time of growing pressure to address inequality, climate change, global debt, and digital transformation.

South Africa’s ability to manage competing priorities and maintain unity among member states could shape the future direction of the G20 — especially with powerhouses like China, the EU, and the US involved.

Despite challenges, Roodt remains optimistic. “We’re seeing a strong willingness to collaborate. That’s what’s going to matter most going forward.”

{Source: ChannelAfrica}

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