President Mahama Commits to Breaking Down Trade Barriers Between Ghana and Mali
President John Dramani Mahama pledges to eliminate trade barriers between Ghana and Mali to enhance regional trade and economic growth. The initiative focuses on streamlining procedures and addressing transportation challenges faced by long-distance truck drivers. This commitment is part of a broader diplomatic effort to strengthen relations with neighboring countries, including planned visits to Niger and Burkina Faso.
President John Dramani Mahama has affirmed his administration’s dedication to enhancing regional trade by eliminating barriers that impede the transportation of goods between Ghana and Mali. This initiative aims to promote economic growth and strengthen bilateral relations between the two West African nations. The president conveyed this commitment during a press briefing following a meeting with Mali’s Transitional President, General Assimi Goïta, in Bamako on March 8.
The discussions centered around streamlining trade procedures, removing bureaucratic hurdles, and fostering cooperation between the transportation and customs agencies of both countries. President Mahama underscored the essential contribution of long-distance truck drivers to the economies of Ghana and Mali. These drivers are responsible for transporting various goods, including foodstuffs, manufactured products, and raw materials, across their borders.
Acknowledging the existing challenges faced by these transporters, he highlighted issues such as complex customs processes, roadblocks, delays at border posts, and unofficial fees that burden drivers. “A lot of long-distance drivers, both Malian and Ghanaians, convey goods from our ports to Mali and transport goods from Mali back to our ports for export,” stated President Mahama. He emphasized the need for solutions to facilitate smoother operations for those involved in transit activities.
Ghana and Mali have enjoyed robust trade relations for years, with Ghana serving as a critical conduit for Malian goods heading to international markets. President Mahama’s visit to Mali is part of his broader ‘Good Neighbourliness’ initiative, which seeks to bolster diplomatic and economic ties with neighboring countries. He is also set to visit Niger and Burkina Faso, which have recently exited the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to form the AES bloc.
In conclusion, President Mahama’s commitment to abolishing trade barriers between Ghana and Mali is poised to enhance economic growth and bilateral relations. Through streamlining trade procedures and addressing the challenges faced by long-distance drivers, the initiative promises to foster smoother trade operations. This visit and the upcoming tours to Niger and Burkina Faso further signify Ghana’s dedication to regional cooperation and economic solidarity.
Original Source: citinewsroom.com
