German minister criticizes Trump's exclusion of South Africa from G20 summit

German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul has voiced strong criticism against U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to disinvite South Africa from the upcoming G20 summit in Florida. Speaking at the University of Witwatersrand in Johannesburg, Wadephul declared that excluding South Africa sidelines a crucial African voice and a significant regional economic and political leader.

Wadephul argued that such an exclusion serves no one's interest, particularly during a time of increasing global economic instability. "We need more cooperation, not less," he stated, referencing the successful G20 summit held in Johannesburg the previous year as proof of South Africa's indispensable role within the group.

The U.S. president's decision stems from accusations that South Africa is committing genocide against white farmers. However, experts and the South African government have firmly refuted these claims. South Africa, a founding member of the G20, is considered a key player in the forum of leading industrialized and emerging economies.