South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa has downplayed his country’s exclusion from the upcoming G7 summit in France, saying it’s no surprise since they’re not a member.
The US allegedly pressured France to withdraw Ramaphosa’s invitation, citing tensions over trade, diplomacy and South Africa’s strategic partnerships.
The South African presidency initially claimed France withdrew the invitation due to “sustained pressure” from Washington. However, Ramaphosa later backtracked, stating there’s been “no pressure from any country”. France denies yielding to US pressure, saying they’re hosting a “streamlined G7” and invited Kenya instead.
The snub reflects deeper tensions between the US and South Africa, including disputes over trade, race relations and South Africa’s decision to take Israel to the International Court of Justice over alleged genocide in Gaza.
The US has imposed tariffs on South African exports and criticized the country’s racial justice policies.
