South Africa has asked China to delay naval exercises with Russia to prevent interference with the G20 summit it will host in November.
South Africa has asked China to postpone planned naval exercises with Russia to avoid a clash with its hosting of the Group of 20 summit in November, officials said Thursday.
The Defense Department said the request was made to ensure the exercises “do not impact on the logistical, security and other arrangements associated with South Africa’s G20 Presidency.” China is leading this year’s drills, which take place biennially with BRICS partners.
President Donald Trump has been invited to the November 22–23 summit in Johannesburg but has not confirmed attendance, saying in July, “I think maybe I’ll send somebody else because I’ve had a lot of problems with South Africa. They have some very bad policies.”
It is not yet clear if China has agreed to the postponement.
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