BEIJING: China has raised objections to the United States hosting the Group of 20 nations in 2026, a decision previously announced by President Joe Biden’s administration. The G20 member countries traditionally rotate their presidency of the group, which includes hosting the annual summit of world leaders.
The US had indicated that it would assume the G20 presidency after India, Brazil, and South Africa complete their respective yearlong terms.
China’s objection, reportedly supported by Russia, is seen as largely symbolic and unlikely to result in a reversal of the decision. The discussions regarding this matter took place on the sidelines of the current G20 summit in India, and individuals familiar with the discussions requested anonymity due to their private nature.
Conflict Over Hosting of G20 in 2026
While the specific reasons for China’s objections remain unknown, the objection may be related to its ongoing standoff with the United States over various issues, including Taiwan and technology export controls. By the end of 2025, all G20 member countries will have hosted at least one summit, marking a point where the rotation begins again. Notably, the US hosted the inaugural G20 summit in Washington in 2008.
It’s important to note that neither Chinese leader Xi Jinping nor Russian President Vladimir Putin attended the G20 summit in New Delhi. The G20 is divided into regional sub-groups whose members collectively decide on the host country for the summit.
The White House has not provided an immediate response to requests for comments on China’s objections.
Addressing reporters in New Delhi, US Deputy National Security Advisor Jon Finer highlighted that India, Brazil, and South Africa, often referred to as “the three democratic members of the BRICS” group, are the current and upcoming chairs of the G20. Finer emphasized their commitment to the success of the G20 and reiterated the United States’ intention to host after their terms, expressing hope for China’s participation in the process.
