South Africa has tightened the diplomatic rulebook ahead of next week’s G20 presidency handover, insisting that the transfer be conducted at a senior level befitting both nations.
International Relations Minister Ronald Lamola confirmed that Pretoria will now appoint an official of equivalent rank to a Chargé d’Affaires to formally pass the instruments of the G20 presidency to the United States.
The decision follows Washington’s initial plan to have its Chargé d’Affaires in Pretoria receive the handover—an arrangement South Africa firmly rejected, stressing that President Cyril Ramaphosa would not delegate such a symbolic responsibility to a junior-level diplomat.
Lamola said the adjustment restores the “diplomatic dignity and protocol” traditionally expected between partners of global standing, ensuring the handover proceeds smoothly and respectfully.
With the protocol dispute resolved, both sides are now poised for a seamless transition as the U.S. prepares to take the reins of the G20.
