Ghana, Guinea-Bissau forge stronger economic and political ties
By Daniel NONOR, Jubilee House
The President of Guinea-Bissau, Umaro Sissoco Embaló, has undertaken a significant visit to Ghana, aimed at fostering cooperation and enhancing political and economic ties between the two nations.
The visit, set against the backdrop of increasing regional integration efforts, highlighted the commitment of both countries to deepen their relationship for mutual benefit.
Ministerial teams from both nations engaged in discussions covering various sectors, including education, trade and industry, agriculture, fisheries, environment, science and technology, petroleum and hydrocarbon activities, and tourism.
During discussions at the Jubilee House yesterday, President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo emphasized the importance of strengthening collaboration across various sectors in Guinea-Bissau.
As part of this effort, the two countries have established joint venture partnerships between private companies, allowing fishing vessels to operate in Guinea-Bissau waters.
Additionally, the agreement facilitates the training of individuals from Guinea-Bissau in Ghana’s fishery schools and the regional Maritime Academy, alongside the exchange of information on fishing technology and cooperation from Ghana.
The two leaders explored opportunities for enhancing trade, investment, and diplomatic cooperation, with a focus on promoting economic growth and development in both countries.
President Akufo-Addo reiterated Ghana’s strong support for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), emphasizing its potential to drive intra-African trade and economic integration.
He stressed the need for African countries to leverage AfCFTA to boost industrialization, create jobs, and foster sustainable development.
In addition to economic cooperation, the leaders discussed pressing regional and international issues, including Africa’s push for greater representation on the United Nations Security Council. President Akufo-Addo reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to advocating for Africa’s interests globally and called for solidarity among African nations in advancing the continent’s agenda on the international stage.
President Akufo-Addo also emphasized the importance of promoting peace, stability, and democracy in Africa, highlighting Ghana’s commitment to democratic governance.
He underscored the need for concerted efforts to address challenges to peace and security across the continent.
President Embaló, on his part, lauded Ghana’s role in African liberation struggles, which paved the way for the independence of many other African countries.
He expressed his country’s commitment to deepening bilateral relations with Ghana across various areas of common interest, including education, technology, agriculture, economy, finance, defense, and security.
President Embaló stressed the importance of achieving food security and increasing intra-African commercial exchange through the implementation of the AfCFTA and maximizing the value of natural resources.
