Ghana Strengthens Diplomatic Ties with Madagascar and Saint Lucia
Ghana has established diplomatic relations with Madagascar and Saint Lucia during the UN General Assembly, signing two communiques, while also completing a bilateral investment agreement with Trinidad and Tobago to promote economic cooperation.
Ghana has recently formalized its diplomatic relations with Madagascar and Saint Lucia by signing two communiques, alongside establishing a bilateral investment promotion and protection agreement with Trinidad and Tobago. The agreements were signed by Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Honorable Shirley Botchwey, and her counterparts, Ms. Rasata Rafaravavitafika from Madagascar and Mr. Alva Baptiste from St. Lucia, during brief ceremonies held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday. During discussions between Ms. Rafaravavitafika and Ms. Botchwey, they examined the potential and benefits of enhancing intra-African trade. Ms. Rafaravavitafika announced Madagascar’s intention to join the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement the following month. Ghana has been an early signatory to this pivotal trade framework and is honored to host the AfCFTA secretariat in its capital, Accra. In a separate engagement, Ms. Botchwey, alongside Dr. Amery Browne, the Foreign Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, signed the Agreement on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment (ARPPI). Dr. Browne expressed his satisfaction, stating, “I’m delighted we could do this today; indeed, it’s a great day,” to which Ms. Botchwey concurred as they exchanged signed documents. This agreement is anticipated to augment bilateral trade through mutual economic cooperation, safeguarding of investors’ rights, and the prevention of illegal expropriation. Although the trade volume between Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago remains limited, the presence of the Republic Bank of Trinidad and Tobago in Ghana illustrates a growing economic footprint. Furthermore, the ministers also discussed the impending Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) scheduled to take place in four weeks in Samoa, where there is speculation surrounding Ms. Botchwey’s candidacy for the position of Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, succeeding Baroness Patricia Scotland of Dominica. Additionally, Ms. Botchwey engaged in bilateral discussions with Lord Collins, the British Under-Secretary of State for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, and Mr. Joseph Andall, the Foreign Minister of Grenada.
The establishment of diplomatic relations is a vital aspect of international relations, enabling countries to strengthen bilateral ties, facilitate trade, and engage in cooperative ventures. Ghana’s recent diplomatic initiatives reflect its ongoing commitment to enhancing its foreign relations, particularly within Africa and across the Caribbean. The signing of agreements with Madagascar, Saint Lucia, and Trinidad and Tobago is an instrumental step towards fostering trade and mutual cooperation within these regions. The upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) highlights Ghana’s active role in regional and international diplomacy, especially in considering leadership within the Commonwealth.
In conclusion, Ghana’s recent diplomatic activities underscore its commitment to fostering international relationships and enhancing trade partnerships. The establishment of diplomatic ties with Madagascar and Saint Lucia, alongside the investment protection agreement with Trinidad and Tobago, signifies a positive step towards increased economic collaboration and intra-African trade. As Ghana prepares to participate in the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, the nation’s potential leadership role within the Commonwealth could further enhance its diplomatic profile globally.
Original Source: www.modernghana.com
