Ghana and China elevate ties to strategic partnership amid expanding cooperation

Ghana and China have upgraded their diplomatic relationship to a strategic partnership, as announced by Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo and Chinese President Xi Jinping.

The announcement was made during a high-level meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Thursday, marking a significant deepening of bilateral ties between the two nations.

President Xi highlighted the historical significance of Ghana’s relationship with China, noting that it was one of the earliest African countries to establish diplomatic relations with Beijing, dating back 64 years.

“Ghana was the second sub-Saharan African nation to forge ties with China, and our friendship has endured through many global changes,” Xi stated, emphasizing the long-standing bond between the two countries.

Speaking at the meeting, President Xi reiterated China’s commitment to strengthening political trust and expanding cooperation across various sectors, including agriculture, fisheries, energy, mineral resources, and infrastructure.

He affirmed China’s intention to align its development strategies with those of Ghana, pledging continued support for Ghana’s economic and social growth. “China remains a reliable friend and partner to Ghana, committed to mutual development and shared prosperity,” Xi said.

According to reports from the Daily Graphic on Friday, President Xi also called on Ghana to maintain its support for Chinese enterprises and citizens operating within the country, highlighting the importance of bilateral cooperation in fostering economic development.

President Akufo-Addo praised China as Ghana’s most reliable ally over the past six decades. He reaffirmed Ghana’s support for the One-China policy and China’s stance on major international issues, including human rights.

Expressing gratitude for China’s ongoing investments and cooperation, Akufo-Addo acknowledged the pivotal role these have played in Ghana’s economic and social development.

Akufo-Addo outlined his desire to deepen collaboration in critical sectors such as electricity, minerals, and renewable energy, and assured that Ghana would continue to facilitate the operations of Chinese businesses.

He also welcomed President Xi’s ten-point plan to enhance China-Africa cooperation, committing to implement these initiatives and further strengthen Ghana’s robust partnership with China.