Argentina’s President Javier Milei will not attend the upcoming G20 Johannesburg Summit, scheduled for the 22nd and 23rd of November.
The decision follows reports from the Buenos Aires Times, citing sources in Argentina’s Presidential Office who confirmed that Milei has opted out of the trip.
Instead, Argentina will send its G20 diplomat, Federico Pinedo, and Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno to represent the country.
It would have been Milei’s second G20 appearance since taking office and his first in Africa.
GROWING NO SHOWS AT THE G20 JOHANNESBURG SUMMIT
Milei’s no-show comes just days after former US President Donald Trump announced that Washington would not send a delegation either.
Trump accused South Africa’s government of allowing “human rights violations” against the Afrikaner minority.
The South African government has, however, dismissed the claims as “regrettable” and “misinformed”.
While South Africa’s Foreign Ministry insists the summit’s success “will not depend on a single member state,” Milei’s absence raises diplomatic questions.
Argentina’s decision could be seen as aligning with Trump’s controversial stance.
Despite this, Argentina and South Africa have had a growing trade relationship, particularly in agricultural and industrial goods.
Moreover, South Africa is Argentina’s fourth-largest African export destination, and both countries have benefited from cooperation.
WHY SOUTH AFRICANS SHOULD CARE
For South Africa, hosting the G20 Johannesburg Summit presents an opportunity to showcase African development and foster global partnerships.
Milei’s withdrawal, however, adds a layer of political tension to an already divided global stage.
For young South Africans building businesses or careers, this moment matters.
Global events, such as the G20, shape trade, investment, and opportunities, and the choices leaders make today can open or close tomorrow’s doors.
