Rubio decided not to attend due to his criticism of South Africa's policies as 'anti-American' and his belief that the meeting would focus on themes like diversity, equality, and inclusion, which he felt were not aligned with U.S. national interests.

The absence of U.S. officials highlights strained relations between the U.S. and South Africa, potentially distracting from the meeting's focus and impacting the significance of discussions due to the U.S.'s economic influence.

South Africa aims to reinforce ties with the EU and other global partners, focusing on themes of solidarity, equality, and sustainability, particularly addressing inequality and the needs of the Global South.

Bessent cited obligations in Washington as the reason for not attending the meeting, although his initial confirmation and subsequent withdrawal highlight ongoing diplomatic tensions.