EU supports African Union’s G20 bid at India Summit

Charles Michel, head of the European Council, backs the African Union joining the G20. He announced this in New Delhi before the weekend summit.

“The EU backs the African Union in the G20,” Michel stated.

He added that a unanimous summit outcome might be hard. Key global issues like the Ukraine conflict make it tricky.

He thanked India for drafting a statement that could make all sides happy.

Yet, he didn’t say if the African Union’s entry would go ahead despite other disagreements.

“The EU condemns Russia’s actions and supports Ukraine,” Michel stressed. He also highlighted the EU’s backing for Ukraine’s proposed peace plan.

Additionally, Michel aims to fast-track global sustainable goals at the meeting. He’ll focus on combating climate woes and slashing poverty.

“We won’t solve all world problems at this summit, but it’s a step in the right direction,” Michel concluded.

Context

The G20 is a global forum of the world’s largest economies. It includes 19 countries and the European Union.

The group was formed in 1999 after financial crises rocked emerging nations. Since then, it has expanded its focus beyond economic policies.

Today, it also tackles issues like climate change and global health.

India holds the G20’s rotating presidency for 2022. The country has its own set of priorities for the summit.

This isn’t the first time a member nation has pushed for the African Union’s inclusion. The African Union represents 55 African countries in international matters.

Supporters argue that adding the African Union would bring more diverse perspectives to the G20.

The African Union was founded in 2001 in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and launched in Durban, South Africa.

It aims to promote unity and development across the continent. Despite its global influence, the African Union is not a G20 member.

Critics say the absence limits the forum’s effectiveness in tackling global issues.