New Envoys Present Credentials to President Mahama
On Monday, five new envoys from France, Angola, Namibia, South Sudan, and China presented their Letters of Credence to President John Dramani Mahama at the Credentials Hall of the Presidency in Accra. These envoys include:
- Madam Diarra Dime Labille, Ambassador of France
- Mr Rui Orlando Ferraira De Ceita Da Silva Xaxier, Ambassador of Angola
- Madam Ndiyakupi Nghituwamata, High Commissioner of Namibia
- Madam Jacquiline Natepi Ben Lochalamoi, Ambassador of South Sudan
- Mr Cong Song, Ambassador of China
President Mahama expressed his appreciation for the diplomatic relations between Ghana and these countries. He emphasized the nation’s commitment to strengthening ties with friendly nations globally.
Recognition of the Slave Trade as a Crime Against Humanity
During his address, the President thanked the Governments of Angola, Namibia, South Sudan, and China for their support during the recent UN General Assembly Meeting. This support was crucial in the adoption of Ghana’s Resolution recognizing the slave trade as “the gravest crime against humanity.”
The resolution, proposed by President Mahama, who is the African Union Champion for Reparations, marks a significant step towards healing, justice, and the pursuit of reparations. The President highlighted that this achievement would pave the way for a more equitable future.
Strengthening Ghana-China Relations
In discussions with the Chinese Ambassador, President Mahama noted the long-standing history of diplomatic relations between Ghana and China. He expressed gratitude for President Xi Jinping’s invitation to visit China and for the bilateral talks they had.
He also acknowledged the two grants provided by China: one for establishing the Aflao markets and another for setting up a university in the Savannah Region. These initiatives are expected to boost economic development and create job opportunities.
The President mentioned the historical connection between Ghana’s first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, and Chinese leaders like Chairman Mao Zedong and Premier Zhou Enlai. He recalled how the Chinese government supported Dr. Nkrumah during his time of need, highlighting the deep-rooted friendship between the two nations.
Debt Restructuring and Economic Stability
President Mahama praised China for its role in Ghana’s debt restructuring efforts. He noted that China and France co-chaired the framework for discussing Ghana’s debt restructuring, with China playing a positive role in achieving the final agreement.
Since the agreement was signed, Ghana has successfully reduced its debt-to-GDP ratio from above 60% to 45% by the end of last year. This has brought the country’s debt to sustainable levels. The President also highlighted improvements in the investment environment, macroeconomic stability, and lower inflation and interest rates.
Foreign Direct Investment and Private Sector Engagement
Ghanaians are beginning to see the impact of these economic reforms through increased foreign direct investment (FDI). President Mahama noted that a significant portion of these investments comes from the private sector, particularly from China. This has contributed to job creation for young people in Ghana.
He emphasized the importance of continuing to attract private sector investors to the country. One emerging area of investment from China is in the mining sector. President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana’s support for the One China Policy and pledged to work together with China for world peace and security.
Commitment to Bilateral Partnerships
The newly appointed envoys reiterated their commitment to enhancing bilateral partnerships between Ghana and their respective countries. Mr. Cong Song, the Chinese Ambassador, extended warm greetings and best wishes from President Xi Jinping to President Mahama.
He expressed the goodwill and friendship of the Chinese Government and People towards the Government and People of Ghana. Mr. Cong also congratulated President Mahama on representing Africa in the UN General Assembly’s Resolution regarding the transatlantic slave trade.
“This is a victory for Ghana, and this is a victory for Africa, and China supports that. And China will always stand firmly together with our African friends to correct the historical injustice and uphold the fairness and justice of the world,” Mr. Cong said.
He noted the longstanding friendship between China and Ghana, dating back to the founding leaders of both nations—President Kwame Nkrumah of Ghana, Chairman Mao Zedong, and Premier Zhou Enlai of China.
