German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has asked US President Donald Trump to invite South Africa to the upcoming Group of 20 leaders’ summit in the US. Merz argued that discussions about the global economy must include all major partners and that Africa should have a seat at the table. He pointed out that both the African Union and South Africa are members of the G20, making South Africa’s participation appropriate. Trump had vowed last year that South Africa would not be invited to the gathering. That move followed his repeated claims that the country’s Black-majority government persecutes its white minority, allegations that South Africa has repeatedly denied. Merz’s remarks put the spotlight on Washington and highlight a disagreement over inclusion in the forum.