US Treasury Secretary Skips G20 Meeting Amid Domestic Policy Focus
Washington, D.C. - US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has announced his absence from the Group of 20 (G20) finance ministers meeting in South Africa next week. The decision prioritizes domestic agenda items during his initial weeks in office.
Bessent's withdrawal follows Secretary of State Marco Rubio's decision to skip the G20 foreign ministers gathering earlier this week, citing concerns over South Africa's land and equality policies. A US diplomat in South Africa will represent the country at the foreign ministers' meeting.
"I will not attend the G20 Summit because of obligations in Washington D.C.," Bessent stated in a post. "A senior Treasury official will be present in my stead. I maintain regular contact with global counterparts to advance President Trump's agenda."
The decision may be perceived as a further disengagement from multilateral forums by the Trump administration. Unlike previous Treasury chiefs who promptly engaged with their counterparts, Bessent's absence may signal a shift in priorities.
As a key proponent of the proposed tax-cut package, Bessent remains heavily involved in domestic policy initiatives. The G20 meeting would have offered his first opportunity to meet with international counterparts since assuming his position last month.
The G20, formed after the Asian financial crisis, unites the world's advanced economies and emerging markets. It has been a influential platform for establishing global financial norms, including a commitment to free markets. Despite recent tensions, the group provides a space for leaders to discuss economic issues.
Relations between the US and South Africa, the current G20 chair, have deteriorated since President Trump criticized the country's land expropriation laws and accused it of human rights violations.
Bessent is expected to have another opportunity to engage with international counterparts in April during the IMF and World Bank spring meetings in Washington, D.C.