We’ll strengthen ties with global community — Prez Mahama

President John Mahama has reaffirmed the country's commitment to strengthening bonds of friendship, cooperation and goodwill with other countries in the global diplomatic community. 

He acknowledged the crucial role of international partnerships in addressing shared challenges and improving citizens' quality of life worldwide.

"On this occasion, we reaffirm our commitment to nurturing the bonds of friendship, cooperation and goodwill that exist between Ghana and your respective countries," President Mahama added.

The President was speaking during a New Year Greetings ceremony with the Diplomatic Corps at the Jubilee House in Accra.

In attendance were the Vice-President, Prof. Naana Jane Opoku-Agyemang; the Chairman of the Council of State, Edward Doe Adjaho, as well as ministers and senior government officials, including the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and the Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Creative Arts, Abla Dzifa Gomashie, among others.

A delegation of diplomats from various foreign missions in the country were also present at the cocktail event.

The New Year Greetings ceremony is an annual event where the government shares pleasantries with members of the diplomatic community.

It also serves as a platform for the country to reaffirm its commitment to diplomacy and international cooperation.

Significance

President Mahama highlighted the significance of diplomacy in building lasting relationships and promoting mutual growth.

“This meeting with the members of the diplomatic corps represents a new hope for partnership and the promise of new beginnings in the year 2025,” he said.

The President further said that the outcome of the meeting would have a lasting impact on the trajectory of nations and the well-being of their people.

"In today's globalised and complex world, our fates are inextricably intertwined, and this fact cannot be overstated.

The relationships that we forge will ripple through time, influencing the trajectory of our nations and the quality of life of our people," he added.
 

Economic diplomacy 

For his part, Mr Ablakwa said that economic diplomacy remained an important aspect of the country’s international relations strategy.

He said that a strong economic relationship among nations was a catalyst for sustainable development.

"We are focused on fostering beneficial trade agreements and equitable economic policies," he said.

The minister reiterated his appeal to the diplomatic community to treat Ghanaians who visit their premises in pursuit of visa applications with dignity and respect.

He also entreated them to provide conducive waiting areas, emergency services, reasonable waiting time for appointments and address challenges in the usage of visa application websites.

"As we begin this new year, let us recommit to our goals of dialogue, true partnership and multilateral engagements,” Mr Ablakwa added.

He said the government would continue to prioritise strengthening its ties through diplomacy, trade and cultural exchanges.

"In today's digital age, we recognise the importance of digital diplomacy.

We are committed to ensuring that technological advancements promote inclusive growth and ethical governance," Mr Ablakwa added.