Lamola confirms US to join G20 foreign ministers’ meeting – SABC News
As world leaders gather in New York for the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), G20 foreign ministers are also meeting on the sidelines to prepare for the Leaders’ Summit in November.
South Africa’s International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola says among the key issues under discussion are multilateral reform, global peace and security, climate finance and food security.
Lamola also confirmed that the United States will participate in the gathering.
“The US will participate, there is a confirmation but it’s not yet very clear as to at which level. But they will definitely participate because they have now decided to re-engage with the whole process of the G20 and they are participating in the various meetings of the G20 hosted by South Africa,” says Lamola.
#SAatUN | International Relations and Cooperation Minister, Mr Ronald Lamola meeting with the President of the 80th United Nations General Assembly, Ms Annalena Baerbock, ahead of #UNGA80 High-Level week, New York, USA 21/09/2025
📷: Katlholo Maifadi/DIRCO@GovernmentZA pic.twitter.com/yC7KPg2xSG
— DIRCO South Africa (@DIRCO_ZA) September 21, 2025
Additionally, the recognition of Palestine by countries such as Australia has sharpened focus on the long-standing conflict in the Middle East.
Speaking on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ meeting in New York, Lamola said the development marks a turning point.
He stressed the importance of international pressure to secure a ceasefire and advance the two-state solution.
“We see, there’s a major tipping point to deal with the Israeli impunity, that is currently unfolding on the Gaza Strip, including the UN Human Rights Commissions report, which is provided with forensic detail, the fact that what is currently unfolding on the Gaza Strip and Palestine is genocide. So, we welcome this, it’s a turning point. We call on all members of the UN to follow suit and continue with the pressure to ensure there is a cessation of fire,” adds Lamola.
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