(MENAFN) Chinese President Xi Jinping will forgo participation in the forthcoming G20 Summit in South Africa, with Premier Li Qiang designated to represent China instead, according to an announcement from the Foreign Ministry in Beijing.

The gathering, scheduled for November 22–23 in Johannesburg, marks a significant moment as South Africa—having taken over the rotating presidency in December 2024—becomes the first African state to preside over the forum.

President Cyril Ramaphosa has noted that his nation’s leadership will center on propelling development priorities for both Africa and the broader Global South.

At a Thursday press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian stated that Premier Li would attend the summit at South Africa’s request, affirming that Beijing endorses Pretoria’s stewardship of the G20 and remains prepared to collaborate with all stakeholders to safeguard multilateralism and foster an open global economy.

He also highlighted the “historic significance” of convening the summit on African soil for the first time.

The G20—composed of 19 nations along with the European Union and the African Union—faces a notable absence from the US, which is poised to assume the chairmanship next.

Washington declared last week that it would send no representatives to Johannesburg, after previously accusing Pretoria of pushing an “anti-American” agenda.

Responding on Thursday, Ramaphosa remarked that the US decision to skip the summit was “their loss.”

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