The African Union is joining the G20, a powerful acknowledgement of a continent of 1 billion people

CARA ANNA

The group of the world’s 20 leading economies is welcoming the African Union as a permanent member, a powerful acknowledgement of Africa as its more than 50 countries seek a more important role on the global stage.

U.S. President Joe Biden called last year for the AU’s permanent membership in the G20, saying it’s been “a long time in coming.” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the current AU chair, Comoros President Azali Assoumani, with a hug on Saturday at the G20 summit his country is hosting, saying he was “elated.”

“Congratulations to all of Africa!” said Senegal President Macky Sall, the previous AU chair who helped to push for membership. The AU had advocated for full membership for seven years, spokesperson Ebba Kalondo said. Until now, South Africa was the bloc’s only G20 member.

Here’s a look at the AU and what its membership represents in a