UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has arrived in Johannesburg, South Africa, for the annual G20 summit South Africa, which gathers leaders of the world’s 20 largest economies. Notably, former US President Donald Trump will not attend, citing claims about the treatment of white South Africans.
Starmer’s focus on UK-Africa business deals
Sir Keir, often dubbed “never here Keir” by critics for his frequent international trips, will use this visit to showcase the role of a UK Prime Minister as a global ambassador for British business.
Before the summit formally begins, Starmer will tour a Johannesburg train depot featuring trains built in Derby. He will announce a new deal in which the UK will provide strategic advice and consultancy services to South Africa’s railways. Crossrail International, a UK government-owned organisation, will implement the project. Similar agreements have been signed with Vietnam in recent years (Gov.uk).
Downing Street highlights Africa as a market of “unparalleled future opportunities for UK businesses,” noting that half of the continent’s population is under 20 and over a quarter of the world’s population will reside in Africa by 2050 (Business Standard).
Starmer told reporters, “I will focus on the deals we can do, the business we can do, with our partner countries and ensure that our international work benefits the UK directly.”
Trump’s absence and local reactions
Trump described the summit as a “total disgrace” and repeated his claims regarding white South Africans. His administration has offered refugee status to white South Africans, prioritising them over other ethnic groups. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa called the US absence “their loss” and said “boycott politics doesn’t work” (The Star).
No South African political parties, including those representing Afrikaners and the broader white community, have claimed a genocide is occurring.
Starmer will emphasise UK-Africa trade deals and partnerships, signalling the importance of international investment in generating secure jobs and improving living standards.
For related travel opportunities in Johannesburg during the summit, check here.
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