Having admitted the African Union (AU) as a permanent member, the Group of 20 (G20) took a historical step forward in improving global governance and revitalizing international economic cooperation.

The expansion, agreed by G20 members on Saturday, gives developing countries a greater voice and more representation. More cooperation and development opportunities will gravitate toward the Global South as China and other major economies have pledged staunch support for the region to shine in the global arena. 

Amid cheers and applause from the global leaders in attendance, AU Chairperson, Comorian President Azali Assoumani, assumed his seat representing the 55-member continental body at the inaugural session of the 18th G20 summit held in New Delhi on Saturday.

AU Commission Chairperson Moussa Faki hailed the entry, saying it would amplify the continent's advocacy and contributions to meeting global challenges. 

The G20, founded in 1999 in response to several world economic crises, is a major forum to discuss financial and economic issues. It previously comprised 19 countries plus the European Union (EU). Xinhua