ADDIS ABABA, Feb. 15 (Xinhua) -- Ethiopian Foreign Minister Taye Atske Selassie has called for active participation of the African Union (AU) in the Group of 20 (G20) to help make the voices of Africa heard in the global arena.

The foreign minister made the call on Wednesday during the opening of the 44th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the AU in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia.

"The AU's full participation in the G20 provides Africa a unique platform to contribute to global governance and decision-making," Selassie said. "We must, therefore, ensure that the voices of Africa are heard and that our participation is meaningful."

The AU was granted full member status at the G20 summit in New Delhi, India, in September 2023. Before the AU joined the bloc, South Africa was the only African country to have a seat at the G20.

The minister reiterated Ethiopia's commitment to leveraging its BRICS membership with other African countries to further advance the shared interest of the continent and contribute to strengthened global governance and multilateralism.

He also indicated that Ethiopia is determined to work closely with countries of its sub-region to enhance stability, structural connectivity, and economic integration.

Noting that Africa has immense potential for economic prosperity, the minister said the implementation of the AU's 50-year continental development blueprint, Agenda 2063, hinges upon the strong political will and determination, effective coordination, and robust partnership among member states as well as regional economic communities.

"We must remain resolute in our efforts to fully implement the African Continental Free Trade Area and expand inter-regional and inter-Africa trade," Selassie added. Enditem

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