During the opening session of the two-day G20 Summit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced that the African Union (AU) has been officially granted permanent membership in the Group of 20 (G20), a prestigious global organization composed of 55 nations.
This landmark announcement marked the AU’s inclusion as a full-fledged member of the G20.
Following the declaration, Azali Assoumani, the President of the Union of Comoros and the Chairperson of the AU, assumed the role of a permanent member within the G20.
Prime Minister Modi emphasized the principle of “sabka saath” (with everyone) and expressed India’s proposal to grant the African Union permanent membership in the G20.
He further highlighted the unanimous agreement on this proposition, saying, “I believe we all are in agreement on this proposal. With your agreement (he banged the gavel thrice),” Modi said, “Before we start our work, I invite the AU president as a permanent member to take his position.”
This development underscores the G20’s commitment to inclusivity and broadening its representation to address global challenges collectively. The African Union’s new status as a permanent member within the G20 holds significant implications for global economic and political discussions and decision-making processes.