U.S. Criticizes South Africa for Turning G20 into “G100,” Vows to Scale Back Summit
A diplomatic rift has emerged over the format of the upcoming G20 summit, with the United States sharply criticizing host nation South Africa for significantly expanding the guest list, quipping that the gathering has “basically become the G100.”
The criticism, delivered by US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, centers on Washington’s belief that inviting a large number of non-member states risks diluting the core group’s effectiveness and mandate. South Africa has confirmed attendance from 42 countries and blocs for the summit in Johannesburg on November 22–23, comprising the 20 member nations, 16 guest countries, and six regional economic communities.
Defending its approach, Pretoria has argued that broader participation is essential for fostering a more inclusive global dialogue, particularly to amplify the voices of the Global South on critical international issues.
The dispute previews a significant shift in the forum’s direction. Speaking alongside US President Donald Trump in the Oval Office, Secretary Bessent signaled a starkly different vision for the future, stating that when the United States assumes the G20 presidency on December 1, 2025, it would curtail the number of participants.
The confrontation sets the stage for a contentious summit, highlighting a fundamental divide in how world powers view global governance: one side advocating for expanded, inclusive forums and the other prioritizing a smaller, more focused group for decision-making.
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