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Ramaphosa Threatens 'Empty Chair' at G20 Without Trump

11/15/2025

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Summary

Story summary

President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa will symbolically hand over the G20 presidency to an 'empty chair' if U.S. President Donald Trump does not attend the summit next week.
He emphasizes maintaining trade relations with the United States despite tensions.
Trump has said no U.S. officials would attend, but South African officials have denied the claim.
Ramaphosa adds South Africa is prepared to host the Johannesburg summit, with preparatory meetings.

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Story summary

President Cyril Ramaphosa says South Africa will symbolically hand over the G20 presidency to an 'empty chair' if U.S. President Donald Trump does not attend the summit next week.
He emphasizes maintaining trade relations with the United States despite tensions.
Trump has said no U.S. officials would attend, but South African officials have denied the claim.
Ramaphosa adds South Africa is prepared to host the Johannesburg summit, with preparatory meetings.