African Union joins G20 as newest member

The African Union (AU) became a G20 member this weekend. The event took place in New Delhi, India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the AU during the opening. He hugged Azali Assoumani, AU President, to mark the event.

India has pushed for AU’s permanent membership. World leaders praised this as a positive step.

Vincent Magwenya, a South African spokesperson, also expressed approval. He thanked India for its role.

When asked about the G20’s name, an unnamed official said it won’t change. “Brazil can change it if they want,” he added jokingly.

The AU joins the G20, which began in 1999. This group includes major nations and the EU.

Charles Michel, European Council President, backed AU’s inclusion. He expressed support on social media.

Josep Borrell, EU’s foreign leader, also praised the move.

Leaders from many countries are in New Delhi for the summit. U.S. President Joe Biden and UK’s Rishi Sunak are among them.

However, China’s Xi Jinping and Russia’s Vladimir Putin are absent. Their absence turns eyes towards Biden and host Modi.

Background

The AU’s inclusion in the G20 is a landmark move. It adds a voice from Africa in global economic talks.

Previously, South Africa was the only African nation in the group. This expansion can balance the representation of continents.

India’s push for AU’s membership also highlights its foreign policy. India seeks stronger ties with African nations.

The G20 has been a forum for the world’s largest economies. With AU joining, it could take on broader roles.

Issues like climate change and poverty could gain focus. However, the absence of China and Russia is notable.

Their absence could impact the discussions on global issues.

The coming months will show how the AU’s entry changes the G20 dynamics. Observers are keen to see how Africa’s concerns get integrated into global agendas.