G20 becomes G21 as the African Union joins the club
The decision will grant the African Union a permanent seat at the table, similar to the European Union, and elevating their presence in one of the world’s most influential global governance bodies.
The African Union has now become a permanent member of the Group of 20 (G20), as announced by India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Modi’s opening remarks included an invitation to Azali Assoumani, the chair of the African Union, to claim his seat at the table, marking a significant moment in the history of the G20 as other leaders applauded this decision.
As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Prime Minister Modi has taken the reins to facilitate discussions on pressing global issues such as the jittery economic landscape and the urgent need to address the climate crisis.
He said – “India, as the current leader of G20, makes a heartfelt appeal to the world, let’s turn this existing global trust deficit around. It’s time we foster a relationship built on trust and reliance.”
He added, “We must act now and act together. Regardless of geographical divides, or issues concerning food, fuel, terrorism, cyber security, health, energy or water security, it is our collective responsibility to find sustainable solutions for future generations.”
The African Union, a continental body, encompasses all 55 countries of the African continent.
Historically, the African Union has been invited as a guest to the G20 summit, along with other significant global organizations like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund.
This decision will transform the G20 into G21, granting the African Union a permanent seat at the table, similar to the European Union, and elevating their presence in one of the world’s most influential global governance bodies.
Since taking on the G20 presidency, Modi has been assertive in championing India’s role as a leader among emerging and developing nations, known as the Global South, advocating for stronger cooperation with wealthier nations to secure crucial financial support.
Modi has previously expressed his intent to include the African Union in the G20.
In a pre-summit interview with the Press Trust of India, Modi stated, “When we say we see the world as a family, we truly mean it.”
“Africa is our top priority within the G20. One of the inaugural initiatives during our G20 presidency was the Voice of the Global South summit, which saw enthusiastic participation from Africa.”
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