Moroccan Ambassador: AU's membership in G20 to step up Africa's development process

The accession of the African Union (AU) as a permanent member of the G20 is a historic moment which confirms Africa’s growing place in the international multilateral arena, said Morocco’s Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the AU and the UNECA, Mohamed Arrouchi.

Speaking at the 23rd extraordinary session of the AU Executive Council, held on Monday, Arrouchi stressed that this membership represents a decisive turning point for the AU, offering a unique opportunity to infuse the organization with a new dynamic.

It is also an important lever for speeding up the implementation of the objectives and aspirations of Agenda 2063, he noted, stressing that this strategic step forward should not be perceived solely as a symbolic act or a quest for assistance from partners, but rather as a genuine opportunity for the AU to strengthen its presence on the international stage and make an active contribution to global governance.

The diplomat considered that this new dynamic depends on the rapid activation of a Coordination Unit, which will be in charge of ensuring the AU’s effective and efficient participation in G20 meetings.

Additionally, it will ensure rational management of resources, as well as clear and transparent definition of unified and solid positions reflecting the Union’s priority interests and the expectations of member states. He also noted that this optimal coordination with the technical departments of the AU Commission (AUC) and member States aims to make this participation a driving force for development for the continent and enhance its influence on the world stage.

Arrouchi also stressed the importance of preserving the Commission’s central role and visibility in this process, recalling that the AUC, as guarantor of the organization’s institutional memory and continuity, must continue to play a key role in defending the continent’s vital interests.

The diplomat called for regular meetings to follow up the AU’s contributions to the G20’s various activities, adding that these meetings would ensure rigorous follow-up of the results achieved at the meetings.