From 22 to 23 November, South Africa plays host to arguably its most important international event since the 2010 FIFA World Cup, when world leaders and tens of thousands of delegates head to Johannesburg for the G20 Summit, the conclusion of the country's year-long presidency of the geopolitical bloc.
On arrival at OR Tambo International Airport, travellers are greeted by a large photograph of a beaming President Cyril Ramaphosa, framed by the national flag and the insignia of the G20, exhorting visitors to enjoy their stay in the "beautiful country". But few delegates can expect a relaxing vacation taking in the glories of Table Mountain and the wildlife-filled drives of the Kruger National Park.
At the end of a year defined by global trade tariffs, geopolitical mistrust and ongoing wars that have sundered the international community, the summit is a critical moment for the diplomatic corps of the world's 19 major economies - including the US and China - plus the European Union and African Union - to meet face-to-face and stake out some common ground.