African Union gains permanent membership in G20, announces Modi

DEHLI, Sep 9: The Group of 20 (G20) states, in a landmark event, has extended permanent membership to the African Union.

This significant move was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the G20 Summit held in Delhi. The formal induction of the African Union into the G20 bloc was marked by the presence of the African Union chair and Comoros President, Azali Assoumani.

In his opening address, Prime Minister Modi expressed confidence that the proposal to include the African Union as a permanent member had gained unanimous approval. Inviting the African Union head to take his place as a permanent G20 member, Modi highlighted this milestone with a ceremonial gavel strike.

Despite the African Union’s inclusion, diplomats belonging to the G20 member states have indicated that the group’s name will remain unchanged.

Prime Minister Modi, during the inaugural remarks of the G20 Summit’s ‘One Earth’ session, urged global leaders to convert the prevailing trust deficit into a foundation of trust and interdependence. He advocated for unity, highlighting the mantra of ‘Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas’ as a guiding principle.

Modi emphasised the need for solid solutions to bridge divides between the North and South, East and West, along with addressing pressing issues such as food and fuel management, terrorism, cybersecurity, and water security.

Before the commencement of the G20 Summit at Delhi’s Bharat Mandapam, Prime Minister Modi expressed his deepest sympathies for those impacted by the devastating earthquake in Morocco. He conveyed his prayers for the fast recovery of the injured and reassured that the global community stands with the people of Morocco.

As the president of the G20 Summit, he extended a warm welcome to all attendees.