Background

An official source said that the Prime Minister of India sent a letter to the leaders of the G20 countries with a proposal to give the African Union full and permanent membership in the diplomatic group during its upcoming summit in India.

India’s Commitment

The source added that Modi’s proposal demonstrates India’s commitment to strengthening Africa’s representation and participation in world affairs.

G20 Overview

The G20 is an intergovernmental forum of the world’s most important developed and emerging economies. Member states represent about 85% of world GDP, over 75% of world trade and almost two-thirds of the world’s population. It includes 19 countries and the European Union, according to Reuters.

India’s Prime Minister’s Belief

“This is the right move towards a fair and equitable global structure and governance that is more inclusive and representative,” the source said of the proposal. “The Prime Minister firmly believes that the countries of the global south should have a greater voice on international platforms, especially African countries.”

African Union

The African Union consists of 55 countries. Last December, India assumed the G20 Presidency for a one-year term and will host a summit later this year.