Prez. Mahama, Japan PM Hold Bilateral Talks at TICAD 9
By Praisebell Rosemond Larbi
President John Dramani Mahama has held high-level bilateral talks with Japan’s Prime Minister, Ishiba Shigeru, on the sidelines of the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD 9). The discussions reaffirmed the commitment of both countries to strengthen diplomatic and economic ties, with a strong focus on investment, trade, and international cooperation.
Prime Minister Ishiba, in his remarks, extended Japan’s condolences to Ghana following the tragic road accident of August 6, which claimed eight lives, including those of the Minister of Defence and the Minister of Environment. He pledged Japan’s continued solidarity with Ghana, emphasizing Tokyo’s readiness to work more closely with Accra in addressing shared developmental and economic priorities.
President Mahama expressed profound gratitude to Japan for its support during the period of national grief, describing Japan as a “trusted partner and friend” in Ghana’s development journey. He also commended the Japanese government for its consistent contributions through TICAD, particularly in the areas of infrastructure development, health, and education.
Investment Opportunities
The bilateral discussions explored opportunities for Japanese startups and businesses to invest in Ghana, particularly in sectors such as agriculture, education, and healthcare. Prime Minister Ishiba highlighted the need for stronger collaboration to address challenges faced by Japanese companies operating in Ghana, pledging his government’s support in creating a more enabling environment for business growth.
For his part, President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to attracting more Japanese investment, noting that deeper cooperation would not only boost economic growth but also create jobs for the country’s youth.
Upcoming Milestones
Both leaders also agreed to intensify cooperation ahead of major milestones in 2027, including the 100th anniversary of Dr. Hideyo Noguchi’s historic voyage to Ghana, the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ghana and Japan, and the 50th anniversary of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) volunteers’ service in Ghana. These anniversaries, they said, would provide important platforms to showcase the depth of Ghana–Japan friendship.
Global and Regional Issues
Beyond bilateral matters, the two leaders exchanged views on regional and global challenges, including peace, security, and sustainable development. They pledged to work together in promoting stability and shared growth, particularly within Africa and Asia.
President Mahama was accompanied to the meeting by Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, Roads and Highways Minister Kwame Governs Agbodza, and Senior Presidential Adviser Joyce Bawa Mogtari.
The bilateral talks are expected to culminate in the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Thursday, ahead of President Mahama’s address at the TICAD 9 plenary
