G20 leaders in Johannesburg adopted the summit declaration at the outset of today’s proceedings, an unusually early move that came even as the United States refused to participate. Diplomats were taken aback by the timing, which followed strong support from attending nations for a document heavily influenced by India’s priorities and the concerns of the Global South.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed the decision, telling leaders there was “overwhelming consensus and agreement” to adopt the declaration. He urged them not to “allow anything to diminish the value, the stature and the impact of the first African G20 presidency.”

The U.S. objections and absence did not shift the hosts. Ramaphosa’s spokesperson said the declaration “can’t be renegotiated” and noted that “the p

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