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Washington (AFP) – US President Joe Biden at a summit next week will back a permanent place for the African Union in the Group of 20 major economies, seeking to elevate the continent’s role, the White House said on Friday.
Biden will make the announcement during a three-day US-Africa summit beginning Tuesday in Washington, where the administration will defend America’s commitment to the continent amid inroads by China and Russia.
“It is time for Africa to have permanent seats at the table of international organizations and initiatives,” said Judd Devermont, senior director for African affairs at the National Security Council.
“We need more African voices in international conversations that concern the global economy, democracy and governance, climate change, health and security,” he said.
He said the United States would discuss the role of the African Union with India, the G20 chair by 2023.
South Africa is currently the only African member of the G20, which was launched in its current form during the 2008 financial crisis as a way to bring together the world’s major economies. The European Union participates.
Biden’s pledge on the G20 comes after he endorsed expansion of the UN Security Council, including representation from Africa, during a speech to the world body in September.
While few expect quick changes in the Security Council, the stance pits the United States against China and especially Russia, which oppose any move to dilute their veto power.
The Biden administration has endorsed the African Union’s diplomatic role on the continent and sought warm ties with the bloc’s current chairman, Senegalese President Macky Sall, who is expected at the Washington summit.
Host Indonesia invited Sall to participate in the latest G20 summit in Bali last month.
© 2022 AFP
