Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, welcomed the announcement by the leaders of the Group of Twenty (G20) to include the African Union (AU) as a member of the group. The decision was made during their meeting held on 9 and 10 September in New Delhi.
Gamal Roshdy, the official spokesperson for the Secretary-General, lauded the decision as a positive step that promises mutual benefits for both the G20 and the AU. It is expected to strengthen the participation of brotherly African countries in global economic decisions and positions. Furthermore, it will enhance the African continent's capacity to contribute to addressing crucial global issues such as climate change, energy security, and food security, he added.
The spokesperson expressed hope that the League of Arab States' request for a similar status would also be approved. He highlighted the League's recent efforts in this regard, emphasising the direct relevance of the issues addressed by the G20 to the Arab region. These issues encompass development, employment, trade facilitation, and poverty alleviation.
Additionally, the spokesperson underscored the League of Arab States' economic role, which includes oversight of the Greater Arab Free Trade Area which entered into force in 2005. He also noted the organisation's achievements in various areas of economic integration and its economic partnerships with regional groups and active countries
