The BRICS TimesAfrican Foreign Minister stated, “Today there will be no formal handover ceremony. If America wants, they can collect G20 documents from our Foreign Ministry on Monday.”
The ongoing G20 Summit South Africa has ended without the formal handover process being completed. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa did not hand over the gavel to anyone. The gavel is a ceremonial hammer passed to the next host country. This time it was to be given to America, but Donald Trump boycotted the summit. Consequently, no American official received it. The African Foreign Minister stated, “Today there will be no formal handover ceremony. America wants, they can collect G20 documents from our Foreign Ministry on Monday.” Meanwhile, the White House has reacted strongly to this event. The Deputy Secretary said, “South Africa did wrong by not doing formal G20 handover.”
What is the Tradition?
Actually, the host country hands over the gavel to the host of the next summit. This is usually a live ceremony. Both leaders stand face to face during this event. This time it was to be handed to US President Trump, but he boycotted this summit.
Reason Behind Trump’s Boycott
Trump cited that white Christians are being killed in Africa and their lands are being seized. The US had sent an official to receive the gavel. However, the African President refused this gesture. He said it is better to hand it to an empty chair than a junior official. The African Foreign Ministry said they have no diplomatic dispute with the US. However, this gavel is an honor which cannot be handed to a junior official.
What Did PM Modi Say?
On his three-day visit, Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke about India’s heritage. He said India has a rich history. This will help us advance collective wisdom for good health and wellness. Africa’s development is crucial for global progress and India has always stood in solidarity with this continent.
