Japan supports G-20 membership for African Union: Prime Minister

By Seda Sevencan

ISTANBUL (AA) - Japan’s prime minister expressed support Monday for the African Union to become a permanent member of the G-20, according to local media.

“In light of the expanding role of African countries in the international community in recent years, Japan has been keen to reinforce ties with Africa," Kyodo News cited Fumio Kishida as saying at a joint press conference with Senegalese President Macky Sall in Tokyo.

Sall, who is also the chairperson of the African Union, said he appreciated Kishida's proposal.

The pair also agreed to work together on oil and natural gas development projects in Senegal.

The Japanese leader pledged that Tokyo will offer up to 10 billion yen ($72.8 million) in low-interest loans to the education sector in Senegal and up to 15.42 billion yen ($112.3 million) in grant aid for the fishing industry.

Kishida's remarks came after US President Joe Biden 's call last week for the African Union to become a permanent member of the G-20.

“Africa belongs to the table in every room, where global challenges are being discussed, and in every institution where discussions are taking place,” Biden said.