12 June 2025

As the G7 Summit convenes in Kananaskis last weekend (June 15-17), it's time for a frank conversation about Africa's role in global decision-making. While we welcome South African President Cyril Ramaphosa's invitation to the summit, one representative for an entire continent of 1.4 billion people simply isn't enough. The African Union President should also have a voice at this table.

𝗪𝗵𝘆 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗺𝗮𝘁𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘄:

✅ Africa's economic, political, and demographic influence continues to grow

✅ Trade liberalization could unlock Africa's potential in global commerce

✅ Market-based partnerships create real value for all parties involved

Christoph Kannengiesser: "Chancellor Merz must send a strong signal in Kananaskis: for investment security, fair trade conditions, modern financial instruments – and above all, for thepolitical will to drive a closer economic partnership with Africa. What Africa needs is not development aid rhetoric, but market-based partnerships that generate real value – for both sides."

The G7 and G20 agendas must align to create sustainable economic partnerships with Africa. This isn't just about doing the right thing – it's about recognizing economic reality in the 21st century.

Read the press release here.