Biden will launch the proposal at a three-day US-Africa summit in Washington. The president wants to establish closer contact with the African continent, where China and Russia are trying to expand their sphere of influence.
“It is more than time for Africa to have permanent seats at the table of international organizations and initiatives,” said Judd Devermont, executive director for African affairs at the White House National Security Council. “We need more African voices in international conversations about the global economy, democracy, climate change, health and safety.”
2 trillion
The African Union is made up of 55 states with a combined gross domestic product of over $2 trillion. This would place the union in the top 10 of the largest economies in the world. However, South Africa is the only G20 member on the continent.