Ghana Strengthens Diplomatic Ties with Madagascar and St. Lucia
Ghana has established diplomatic relations with Madagascar and St. Lucia and signed a bilateral investment protection agreement with Trinidad and Tobago. These developments, which took place at the UN General Assembly, aim to enhance trade and investment relations, particularly within Africa and the Caribbean. Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Ms. Botchwey, actively engaged in discussions promoting intra-African trade and is a leading candidate for the Commonwealth Secretary-General position.
Ghana has recently fortified its international relations by formalizing diplomatic ties with Madagascar and St. Lucia through the signing of two communiques. This significant development occurred during brief ceremonies held on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, where Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Ms. Shirley Botchwey, represented her nation. The communiques were jointly signed by the respective counterparts of Madagascar, Ms. Rasata Rafaravavitafika, and St. Lucia, Mr. Alva Baptiste. During the discussions with Ms. Rafaravavitafika, Ms. Botchwey highlighted the potentials and benefits of enhancing intra-African trade. Ms. Rafaravavitafika conveyed Madagascar’s commitment to signing the African Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) pact next month, emphasizing that Ghana, an early signatory of this pivotal trade agreement, continues to play a crucial role by hosting the AfCFTA secretariat in its capital, Accra. Further strengthening Ghana’s international collaboration, Ms. Botchwey also engaged in discussions with Dr. Amery Browne, the Foreign Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, leading to the signing of an Agreement on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment (ARPPI). Dr. Browne expressed enthusiasm about the agreement, stating, “I am delighted we could do this today.” In response, Ms. Botchwey reciprocated with, “Indeed, it’s a great day,” as they exchanged signed documents. The ARPPI aims to enhance bilateral trade through mutual economic cooperation, safeguarding investors’ rights, and preventing unlawful expropriation of assets. While current trade between Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago remains relatively modest, the presence of Republic Bank, a financial institution from Trinidad, shows promising growth within the Ghanaian market. Moreover, discussions extended to the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) scheduled to take place in Samoa within four weeks. It is significant to note that Ms. Botchwey is perceived as a leading candidate among three contenders for the esteemed position of Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, succeeding Baroness Patricia Scotland of Dominica. Additionally, she held bilateral consultations with Lord Collins, the British Under-Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, and Mr. Joseph Andall, Foreign Minister of Grenada.
This article details the recent diplomatic advancements undertaken by Ghana, highlighting its commitment to establishing and strengthening relationships with other nations, particularly within Africa and the Caribbean. By signing communiques for diplomatic relations with Madagascar and St. Lucia, as well as entering into an investment protection agreement with Trinidad and Tobago, Ghana showcases its strategic approach to facilitating trade and cooperation. The discussions surrounding intra-African trade and impending multinational meetings emphasize Ghana’s proactive role in regional and international diplomatic engagements, especially in the context of the African Free Trade Area agreement.
In summary, Ghana’s recent diplomatic engagements reflect its dedication to enhancing international relations through formal ties with Madagascar and St. Lucia, along with a strategic investment agreement with Trinidad and Tobago. These initiatives not only aim to bolster trade and economic cooperation but also underscore Ghana’s influential position in regional trade discussions and its aspirations for leadership within the Commonwealth. As Ghana continues to strengthen these ties, the potential for increased economic collaboration and opportunity appears promising.
Original Source: www.modernghana.com
