The G-20 Summit, gathering the world’s 20 largest economies, commenced in Delhi today, with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extending a warm welcome to global leaders. PM Modi began by expressing condolences for the victims of the recent earthquake in Morocco, where over 300 lives were lost. He conveyed solidarity with Morocco during this tragic time.
During the summit, PM Modi made a historic announcement by officially inducting the African Union into the G-20 group. He warmly embraced the President of the African Union and offered his congratulations. This decision, achieved under India’s chairmanship, was met with thunderous applause from world leaders, signifying its significance on the global stage.
The African Union’s membership in the G-20 was the result of extensive deliberations and consensus among member countries. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was present in India for this momentous occasion. This development is being hailed as a historic step under India’s leadership.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar received the President of the Union of Comoros and the Chairperson of the African Union, Azali Ousmani, amid resounding applause from the assembled world leaders. Prime Minister Modi personally congratulated the African Union’s President on this important achievement.
The African Union comprises 55 member countries with a combined population of 1.3 billion, which is projected to double by 2050. The inclusion of such a significant group in the G-20 had been a long-standing demand, making this a crucial milestone. With the African Union’s entry, the G-20 now ranks as the second-largest group of countries, following the European Union.
While the official announcement has been made, the formal process of the African Union’s integration into the G-20 may take several months. It is anticipated that full membership will be realized during the 19th G-20 conference, scheduled to be hosted by President Luiz Inacio da Silva in Brazil next year.
