By Hannah Dadzie
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called for a cessation and de-escalation of conflict in the Middle East, urging renewed commitment to peace as Muslims around the world observe the holy month of Ramadan.
Speaking at the second edition of a Ramadan Iftar dinner in Accra, Mr Ablakwa said the sacred period presents an opportunity for reflection.
“Our collective conscience is being called upon at a time of great stress in the Middle East and the Gulf regions. It is my fervent prayer that we use this blessed month of Ramadan to pray for peace to reign and for the guns to be silenced,” Mr Ablakwa stated.
The Minister described Ramadan as a season of compassion, restraint and generosity—values he said align closely with diplomacy grounded in mutual respect and cooperation.
“The holy month of Ramadan is a period of profound reflection, compassion, self-restraint and generosity. It is a time that calls on us to look beyond ourselves and recommit to values that strengthen humanity and peaceful coexistence,” he said.
Quoting from the Quran, Chapter 49:13, he emphasised the importance of understanding across nations and cultures, noting that the verse speaks directly to the essence of diplomacy, dialogue, peaceful coexistence and collaboration for the common good.
At a time when the world faces complex challenges ranging from armed conflict to economic and humanitarian pressures, Mr Ablakwa said platforms such as the Iftar reaffirm the importance of partnership and multilateral engagement. The minister underscored the need for restraint and dialogue in conflict-prone regions, positioning Ghana as a voice advocating calm and cooperation within the international community.
Reaffirming Ghana’s foreign policy posture, Mr Ablakwa described the country’s diplomatic trademark as “friends of all, enemies to none”, stressing that peace, mutual respect and constructive engagement must guide international relations. He commended staff of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for their professionalism and dedication, noting that their work continues to elevate Ghana’s stature in the global community.
Mr Ablakwa expressed hope that the spirit of Ramadan would inspire renewed wisdom, serenity and collaboration among nations working towards lasting peace. He urged participants to carry the spirit of Ramadan beyond the gathering.
“As we depart tonight, may the bonds formed and renewed around this table endure, and may peace, goodwill and cooperation prevail among our peoples and nations,” he said.
A significant portion of the evening was devoted to celebrating the role of the Osman Nuhu Sharubutu, whom the minister described as a symbol of peace, tolerance and moral leadership. Mr Ablakwa, who referred to himself as a “proud son” of the Chief Imam, praised the longstanding partnership between the ministry and the Office of the National Chief Imam since the Iftar was institutionalised last year.
“This country is blessed to have a religious leader of his kind,” he said, calling for prayers for the Imam’s continued health and longevity.
The Chief Director of the ministry, Khadija Iddrisu, noted that the minister had earlier hosted a Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols for the Christian community in December, describing the Iftar as part of efforts to ensure fairness and religious inclusivity within the Ministry.
Delivering a sermon on behalf of the National Chief Imam, Mohammed Marzuq Abubakar Azindoo urged diplomats to allow sincerity and moral responsibility to guide their work in addressing global challenges.
“There is a thin line between diplomacy and hypocrisy,” he said, adding that peace requires moral courage and sincerity.
Dr Azindoo commended the ministry for the initiative and urged diplomats to uphold values that promote unity, reconciliation and cooperation in addressing global challenges.
The Wael Fathy Ahmed, Ambassador of Egypt, who stood in for the Libyan ambassador, described Ghana as the “cradle of Pan-Africanism” and Egypt as the “cradle of civilisation”.
He praised the initiative as a meaningful platform for strengthening cross-cultural understanding and pledged continued participation in future engagements.
The Iftar, now in its second year, forms part of efforts by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to deepen religious tolerance and strengthen Ghana’s engagement with the international community through shared values of peace, sustainable development and respect for diversity.
The event brought together members of the diplomatic corps and faith leaders in what officials described as a demonstration of Ghana’s commitment to religious tolerance and multilateral cooperation.
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Source:
www.gbcghanaonline.com
