The African Union (AU) is slated to be included in the G20 at the Delhi summit, showcasing India’s dedication to the Global South and fortifying Africa’s inclusion. Talks surrounding the final declaration propose AU’s membership and enjoy support from the United States and Russia. The potential inclusion of AU holds substantial significance for India’s presidency, especially concerning persisting challenges such as the ongoing Ukraine conflict. The summit will emphasize crucial topics relevant to the developing world, namely green and sustainable development, inclusive growth, digital transformation, and multilateral institution reform. The invitation extended to AU demonstrates India’s unwavering commitment to Africa’s representation and its increasingly significant role in shaping global affairs.
The G20 summit in Delhi will feature an ambitious agenda titled One Earth, One Family, and One Future, spread over the course of September 9 and 10. Commencing with the morning session named One Earth, the summit will engage leaders in dialogue surrounding matters of green development, sustainable practices, environmental safety, climate change, energy alternatives, and achieving zero emissions. In the afternoon, the summit shifts focus to the One Family session, tackling inclusive growth, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), healthcare, education, and women-led development initiatives. The following morning will witness a final session labeled One Future, dedicated to discussions on digital transformation, multilateral institution reform, and labor-related affairs.
India’s proposal to include AU’s membership in the G20 highlights the nation’s commitment to elevate Africa’s role and partnership in shaping global matters. Africa houses several of the world’s fastest-growing economies, collectively contributing to a substantial GDP of $2.4 trillion. As notable investors in Africa through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China also supports the inclusion of AU to avoid any perception of adversarial action against the continent’s interests. By welcoming AU to the G20, India leverages its presidency to reinforce the representation and participation of the Global South, echoing a recurring theme throughout its term.
