Arab League chief welcomes admission of African Union to G20

LONDON: Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit has welcomed the admission of the African Union as a permanent member of the Group of 20, the Emirates News Agency reported on Monday.

The AU, a continental body of 55 member states, now enjoys the same status in the G20 as the EU — the only regional bloc with full membership.

Its previous designation was “invited international organization.”

Aboul Gheit said the move was a positive step that will benefit both sides and solidify the role of African countries in global economic development.

He added that it will boost the continent’s ability to contribute to resolving key global issues such as climate change, and energy and food security.