South Africa’s president said it was excluded from the June G7 summit in France. Initially claiming U.S. pressure on France as the reason for the withdrawal, the South African presidency later retracted this assertion. According to spokesperson Vincent Magwenya, Ramaphosa’s invitation was rescinded due to purported U.S. boycott threats relayed by France. However, Ramaphosa later stated he received information indicating no foreign pressure was involved.
A U.S. State Department official stated that Washington did not request South Africa’s exclusion. The relationship between the U.S. and South Africa has been strained over various issues, including South Africa’s legal action against Israel, which the U.S. supports.
Tensions between the U.S. and South Africa also stem from trade tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump, criticized South African racial justice policies, and expulsion of Pretoria’s ambassador following remarks about the U.S.’s MAGA movement.
Despite these diplomatic challenges, the presidency spokesperson emphasized the enduring bilateral ties with France and South Africa’s commitment to constructive engagement with the U.S. Efforts are ongoing to appoint a new South African ambassador to the U.S.
Recently, new U.S. Ambassador Brent Bozell was summoned by South Africa following his comments about an apartheid-era chant. Bozell later clarified respect for South Africa’s judiciary findings. Meanwhile, Macron personally invited Ramaphosa to the G7 during a prior G20 in South Africa.
The G7 often includes nations beyond its core seven members. This year, Brazil, India, and South Korea are participating. Despite the current setback, South Africa’s presidency reaffirmed dedication to maintaining diplomatic relations with both France and the U.S.