AU’s G20 Membership Key to Strengthening Global Partnerships, Says Former Chair Assoumani

ADDIS ABABA – The African Union’s (AU) recent inclusion in the G20 is a pivotal development for fostering diversified global alliances and enhancing cooperation, according to former AU Chairperson and Comoros President Assoumani. In an extensive interview with the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), President Assoumani underscored the importance of this milestone, achieved on September 9, 2023, in advancing Africa’s industrialization and collaboration with international organizations.

According to Ethiopian News Agency, President Assoumani elaborated on the benefits of AU membership in the G20, emphasizing its potential to diversify global alliances, foster cooperation, and attract investments for local resource processing and manufacturing. He pointed out the continent’s vast resources, lamenting the missed opportunities for processing these resources within Africa itself. “Africa has a lot of resources, but unfortunately, we do not process them on the continent,” Assoumani stated, highlighting the significance of partnering with G20 countries to boost investment and local production.

The former chair reiterated the AU’s prioritization of industrialization, noting that G20 membership could significantly accelerate this process and strengthen Africa’s position in global alliances. He called on the Union and its member states to assert Africa’s rightful place in international forums, advocating for a proactive stance in addressing challenges such as peace and security, climate change, food crises, and the development of the blue economy.

Reflecting on his tenure, Assoumani acknowledged the challenges faced by the continent, including unsuccessful endeavors that underscored the need for a stronger AU. He expressed concern over the slow progress in key areas but noted that institutional reforms within the AU were advancing successfully.

The conversation also turned to the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA), which President Assoumani described as a flagship project for the AU. Despite slower-than-expected progress in integration and the establishment of the AFCFTA zone, he stressed the importance of accelerating the ratification of the AFCFTA Agreement and commended the achievements in ratifications and tariff offers submitted to the AFCFTA Secretariat.

In conclusion, the former chair emphasized the importance of unity among African leaders to overcome challenges and promote economic independence. He called for a stronger AU capable of tackling issues effectively and highlighted the need to address the adverse effects of frequent coups d’état and conflicts on the continent.

President Assoumani’s insights reflect a vision for a more integrated and industrially advanced Africa, leveraging its G20 membership to forge stronger global partnerships and achieve sustainable development.