The digital world is buzzing with a unanimous verdict. From Johannesburg to Lagos and Nairobi, a wave of appreciation is surging towards New Delhi, with netizens and African voices heaping praise on PM Modi for his strong support at the G20. The reason? Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s unwavering and successful advocacy for the African Union‘s permanent membership in the G20, a move hailed as a masterstroke of diplomacy and a testament to India’s commitment to the Global South.
A Historic Embrace: AU Joins the G20
While the G20 Summit was hosted on Indian soil, the reverberations of its decisions are being felt most profoundly across Africa. For years, African nations, with key partners like South Africa at the forefront, have argued for a more significant role on the global stage. They found a powerful and decisive ally in PM Modi, who made their cause a central pillar of India’s G20 Presidency.
In a moment etched in diplomatic history, PM Modi personally welcomed the African Union, represented by Chairperson Azali Assoumani, as a permanent member of the elite global group. The warm embrace shared between the two leaders symbolized the dawn of a new, more inclusive era in global governance, driven by India’s leadership.
Praise from Across the Continent: Leaders Applaud India’s Support
Immediately following the announcement, African leaders and commentators expressed their profound gratitude. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, a vocal proponent of the AU’s inclusion, lauded the move, highlighting how it would allow the continent’s interests to be more effectively represented.
This sentiment was echoed across the continent. A senior diplomat from Kenya was quoted as saying, “India used its presidency not for its own gain, but to amplify the voice of those who needed to be heard. This is true leadership.” The consensus is clear: PM Modi’s action has solidified a new chapter in India-Africa relations.
Digital Applause: #IndiaForAfrica Trends as Netizens Celebrate
This high-level diplomatic gratitude cascaded across social media, creating a firestorm of positive engagement. On X (formerly Twitter), hashtags like #IndiaForAfrica, #ModiDelivers, and #AUinG20 trended for days across several African nations. Netizens from across the continent shared messages of thanks, with many calling PM Modi a “true friend of Africa.”
One user from Nigeria tweeted, “For too long, global decisions were made about us, but not with us. PM Modi and India have changed the game. A historic day for Africa!” Another from Ghana posted, “Respect for India has gone up 100x. They practice what they preach about ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’ (One Earth, One Family, One Future).”
More Than a Seat at the Table: A Geopolitical Shift
Analysts point out that PM Modi’s initiative has done more than just add a seat to a table. It has fundamentally recalibrated the power dynamics of the G20, making it a more representative and legitimate global body.
By championing Africa’s cause, India has cemented its position as the undisputed leader of the Global South. This was an act of solidarity that has built a reservoir of goodwill for decades to come. As the world grapples with complex challenges, the strengthened India-Africa partnership, forged at the G20, will be a crucial force for stability and progress. The resounding praise from African voices and global netizens tells a simple story: PM Modi promised to be the voice of the Global South, and he has delivered in spectacular fashion.
