The African Union (AU) was officially granted full membership in the Group of Twenty (G-20) during a momentous ceremony at the G-20 Summit held in New Delhi on Saturday, September 9, 2023. The inclusion of the AU was met with widespread enthusiasm and support, marking a significant step towards greater representation and cooperation on the global stage.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who hosted the summit, extended a warm welcome to AU Chairperson Azaly Assoumani, emphasizing that the African Union’s participation would enhance the effectiveness and diversity of the G-20. Prime Minister Modi stated, “Honoured to welcome the African Union as a permanent member of the G-20. This will strengthen the G-20 and also strengthen the voice of the Global South.”

The African Union’s Chairperson, Azaly Assoumani, was escorted to the designated AU chair at the summit by India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar and Prime Minister Modi, symbolizing the union of the AU with the G-20.

In an interview with The Hindu, President Assoumani of Comoros, the current AU Chair, expressed satisfaction with the widespread support that the AU’s advocacy for G-20 membership had received from various member states. He highlighted Africa’s potential to address the continent’s challenges and called for G-20 member countries to invest in African industrialization and resource utilization to create jobs and economic opportunities.

Kanahiya Lal Ganju, Honorary Consul General of Comoros, expressed immense satisfaction with the rapid inclusion of the African Union in the G-20, emphasizing the positive impact this move would have on Africa’s development and its ability to attract investment.

Abdulla Shahid, Foreign Minister of Maldives, praised the AU’s inclusion, noting that it would significantly enhance the representation and voice of developing countries in the G-20’s deliberations and decisions.

India’s commitment to strengthening ties with Africa was underscored by its previous hosting of the India Africa Forum Summit in 2015 and the establishment of new diplomatic missions in AU member countries. India also extended invitations to Nigeria, Egypt, and Mauritius to participate as “Guest Countries” at the G-20 summit, further emphasizing its dedication to fostering collaboration with African nations.

The African Union’s full membership in the G-20 marks a pivotal moment in global diplomacy, promising to promote cooperation between continents and amplify the voices of developing nations in shaping the world’s economic and political landscape.