Ghana Strengthens Diplomatic Relations with Madagascar and Saint…

Ghana has established diplomatic relations with Madagascar and Saint Lucia while signing an investment protection agreement with Trinidad and Tobago during the UN General Assembly. These moves aim to enhance bilateral trade and collaboration, particularly in the context of intra-African trade and upcoming international meetings.

Ghana has formally established diplomatic relations with Madagascar and Saint Lucia through the signing of communiques at the United Nations General Assembly. The foreign minister of Ghana, Shirley Botchwey, signed these agreements alongside her counterparts: Ms. Rasata Rafaravavitafika of Madagascar and Mr. Alva Baptiste of Saint Lucia. During their meeting, the foreign ministers engaged in discussions regarding the prospects of intra-Africa trade. Ms. Rafaravavitafika announced that Madagascar plans to sign the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement next month, with Ghana being among the initial signatories and hosting the AfCFTA Secretariat in Accra. Furthermore, Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago have reached a bilateral agreement to promote and protect investments, as evidenced by the signing of the Agreement on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment (ARPPI) between Ms. Botchwey and Dr. Amery Browne, the foreign minister of Trinidad and Tobago. This agreement aims to enhance bilateral trade through mutual economic cooperation, respect for investors’ rights, and the prevention of unlawful expropriation. Although trade between Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago remains limited, Trinidad’s Republic Bank is operational in Ghana and expanding its presence. The two ministers also discussed the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) scheduled to take place in Samoa. Ms. Botchwey is recognized as a leading candidate for the position of Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, succeeding Baroness Patricia Scotland of Dominica. Additionally, Ms. Botchwey held discussions with Lord Collins, the British Under-Secretary of State in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and Mr. Joseph Andall, the foreign minister of Grenada, further solidifying Ghana’s diplomatic engagements.

The establishment of diplomatic relations among countries serves as a pivotal step in fostering international cooperation and trade. The recent actions by Ghana in signing communiques with Madagascar and Saint Lucia, alongside a significant investment agreement with Trinidad and Tobago, highlight Ghana’s commitment to expanding its diplomatic and economic ties across the globe. These developments are particularly relevant in the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which aims to bolster intra-African trade and economic integration. Additionally, Ghana’s active role in hosting the AfCFTA secretariat positions it as a key player in regional trade dynamics.

In conclusion, Ghana’s recent diplomatic initiatives highlight its dedication to enhancing international cooperation and trade. The establishment of ties with Madagascar and Saint Lucia, coupled with the investment promotion agreement with Trinidad and Tobago, signifies a strategic move towards strengthening economic partnerships. Furthermore, Ghana’s involvement with the AfCFTA reaffirms its leadership role in promoting trade within Africa and its pursuit of global diplomatic engagements, particularly in the context of the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

Original Source: www.modernghana.com