China Throws Weight Behind South Africa Amid G20 Tensions

While US President Donald Trump signals the possibility of excluding South Africa from next year’s G20 summit in Miami, China has stepped forward with an unmistakable message of support, highlighting Pretoria’s role on the global stage and Africa’s emerging influence.

Speaking in Johannesburg at the launch of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s fifth book on governance, China’s ambassador to South Africa, Wu Peng, praised the country’s recent hosting of the G20 summit.

“Africa is steadily advancing towards industrialisation, connectivity, and poverty reduction. South Africa is and always will be a crucial and constructive member of the G20,” Wu said.

He described Africa as entering a “new awakening,” a phase in which the continent could play a leading role in shaping the future of the Global South. Wu positioned China as a partner for African modernisation, with shared goals in economic growth and international influence.

Lessons from China for the Global South

Wu framed Xi’s book as more than political reflectionit is a guide on how a nation navigates modernisation, poverty eradication, and state capacity building.

“China has pursued a path of Chinese-style modernisation, lifted millions out of absolute poverty, and built a moderately prosperous society. This trajectory can offer lessons for countries across Africa, including South Africa,” Wu said.

The message resonates in Pretoria, where policymakers are keen on strategies to strengthen governance, economic resilience, and global engagement. Minister in the Presidency for Planning, Monitoring and Evaluation Maropene Ramokgopa noted that Xi’s writings provide insights into strategic persistence and coherent national planning.

“China’s developmental journey offers lessons in governance, nation-building, and deepening state capacity, which are highly relevant for South Africa,” Ramokgopa said.

A diplomatic counterbalance to US pressure

The endorsement comes at a politically sensitive time. With Trump questioning South Africa’s leadership and hinting at exclusion from the G20, Beijing’s backing reinforces Pretoria’s standing in multilateral forums.

Analysts suggest China’s support is both strategic and symbolic. Social media in South Africa and across Africa reacted positively to Wu’s statements, with many viewing it as a sign that the Global South can assert its influence independently of Western pressures.

A vision for Africa’s rise

China sees Africa not just as a partner but as a model of potential for global influence. Wu highlighted that the continent’s industrialisation and connectivity goals signal a shift towards greater self-determination and global contribution, aligning with Beijing’s broader narrative of South-South cooperation.

For South Africa, the message is clear: despite threats from powerful Western states, the country’s role in shaping the future of global economic governance is recognized and supported, by one of the world’s largest and most influential nations.

{Source: The Citizen}

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