President Akufo-Addo calls for deeper cooperation at Korea-Africa Summit

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo Addo has called for stronger collaboration between Africa and Korea for mutual benefits.
Speaking at the 2024 Korea-Africa Summit in Seoul on Tuesday June 4 ,2024 the President outlined a vision of shared prosperity under the summit’s theme, “The Future We Make Together.”

President Akufo-Addo highlighted the enduring relationship between Ghana and Korea, which was established nearly five decades ago in 1977. “Korea has proven to be a reliable partner and dependable friend of Ghana,” he remarked, citing the economic, cultural, and political exchanges that have flourished between the two nations.

The Ghanaian leader praised the collaborative spirit that has characterized this partnership and expressed optimism for its continued strength. He identified three key pillars for the future of Africa-Korea relations: shared growth, sustainability, and solidarity.

Focusing on economic collaboration, President Akufo-Addo noted Africa’s abundant natural resources and youthful population as vital assets. “By fostering trade, investment, and innovation, we can create a relationship of synergy that benefits both regions,” he said. He highlighted the progress in economic cooperation, including increased trade volumes and successful joint ventures in manufacturing, agriculture, and information technology.

Despite these advancements, President Akufo-Addo acknowledged the need to further reduce trade barriers, enhance infrastructure, and promote knowledge exchange to fully unlock the partnership’s potential.

Addressing the global climate crisis, President Akufo-Addo called for sustainable practices to protect the environment and promote renewable energy. He praised Korea’s leadership in green technology and sustainable development, urging Africa to adopt these innovations. “This is not merely an environmental imperative; it is an economic opportunity that can drive long-term growth and stability,” he asserted.

The President emphasized the importance of global solidarity, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and other global challenges. He stressed the need for mutual support to ensure collective resilience, referencing Korea’s recent trilateral meeting with Japan and China and its significance for Africa. Strengthened relations among these economic powerhouses, he suggested, could lead to increased investment, new markets for African products, and technology transfer.

President Akufo-Addo also highlighted the potential of innovation and technology to drive sustainable development. He called for collaboration in research and development, advancing digital literacy, and promoting entrepreneurship to harness the benefits of the fourth industrial revolution.

Concluding his speech, President Akufo-Addo expressed confidence in the future of Africa-Korea relations. “The future we make together should be one of shared growth, sustainability, and solidarity,” he declared, urging both regions to deepen their collaboration and build a brighter, more prosperous future.

The 2024 Korea-Africa Summit will continue over the coming days, featuring sessions aimed at strengthening ties and exploring new avenues for cooperation. Leaders and delegates from both regions are expected to engage in meaningful dialogues to advance their shared goals.