Stronger Ghana–EU Ties Reaffirmed Amid Economic Recovery Gains
The European Union (EU) has reaffirmed its commitment to deepening its long-standing partnership with Ghana, describing the Ghana–EU Partnership Dialogue as a key platform for advancing cooperation on political, economic and security priorities.
Speaking at the annual dialogue, the EU delegation noted that this year’s meeting carries special significance as it marks 50 years of EU presence in Ghana, describing the milestone as a reflection of decades of shared progress.
The EU commended Ghana’s continued engagement at the highest level, including the participation of the President for a second consecutive year, describing it as a demonstration of Ghana’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
Economic recovery and investment climate
The EU acknowledged Ghana’s “remarkable economic recovery and stabilisation” in recent years, noting that the country has exceeded several targets under its IMF-supported Extended Credit Facility programme.
However, it also raised concerns about persistent challenges in Ghana’s investment environment. These include delays in obtaining permits and land titles, inefficiencies in customs clearance, and port-related bottlenecks, which the EU said continue to affect investor confidence.
It further noted that recent increases in e-visa fees for non-African travellers could negatively impact tourism and foreign investment inflows.
The EU called for practical reforms to address these constraints and improve the ease of doing business, stressing that resolving such issues would be critical to unlocking greater private sector investment under the EU’s Global Gateway strategy.
Through the Global Gateway initiative, the EU said it remains ready to support Ghana with financing for strategic infrastructure and industrial projects using blended finance and private sector partnerships.
Security and defence cooperation deepens
A key highlight of the dialogue was the strengthening of security cooperation following the signing of a new Security and Defence Partnership Agreement earlier this year between Ghana and the EU.
The EU described the agreement as the first of its kind with an African country, positioning Ghana as a strategic security partner in efforts to address regional threats, including violent extremism spreading from the Sahel region.
Under the partnership, the EU said it has already committed over €100 million in support for training, equipment and security programming aimed at strengthening Ghana’s security institutions.
The EU further emphasized its role as Ghana’s primary security partner and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting efforts to combat organised crime, illicit trade and information manipulation.
Trade, governance and shared values
The EU highlighted its position as Ghana’s largest trading partner and a leading source of foreign direct investment and development assistance, describing the relationship as one grounded in shared values and mutual interests.
It also pointed to the establishment of structured thematic dialogues covering peace and security, business climate and economic stabilisation, and climate change and sustainability, aimed at improving coordination and follow-up on joint priorities.
Divergences and diplomatic engagement
While underscoring strong cooperation, the EU acknowledged that differences exist between the two partners on certain global issues. It referenced differing positions at the United Nations on a resolution led by Ghana concerning the transatlantic trafficking of enslaved Africans, while reaffirming its willingness to engage constructively on the matter.
The EU expressed support for continued dialogue on historical injustices and pledged participation in upcoming international discussions on the legacy of slavery.
