By Celestine Avi
President John Dramani Mahama has held bilateral talks with the President of the Republic of Korea, Lee Jae-myung, in Seoul as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations between Ghana and South Korea.
The high-level meeting focused on expanding cooperation in trade, agriculture, technology, security, and cultural exchange between the two countries.
Three strategic agreements signed
The two leaders also signed three Memoranda of Understanding on maritime security, climate change cooperation, and digital technology.
Historic Ghana–Korea relations
President Mahama highlighted the long-standing ties between Ghana and Korea, noting that both countries share similar historical experiences and a strong commitment to democracy, human rights, and good governance.
He said these shared values have made it easier for the two nations to collaborate on global issues, often taking similar positions at the United Nations and other international forums.
Growing cultural connections
President Mahama also pointed to the growing cultural exchanges between the two countries, particularly among young people.
Agriculture and food security cooperation
Agriculture featured prominently in the discussions, with President Mahama highlighting Ghana’s cooperation with the Korea International Cooperation Agency under the K-Rice Belt initiative.
The project aims to increase rice production through improved seed varieties and modern farming techniques as Ghana works to reduce rice imports and strengthen food security.
AfCFTA and investment opportunities
President Mahama also emphasized the opportunities presented by the African Continental Free Trade Area, whose secretariat is based in Accra.
He said Ghana is positioning itself as a production and export hub for the African market of more than 1.4 billion people, encouraging Korean companies to take advantage of the trade opportunities.
Value addition in cocoa and minerals
The president reiterated Ghana’s commitment to adding value to its natural resources rather than exporting them in raw form.
He highlighted opportunities in cocoa processing as well as critical minerals such as lithium, nickel, bauxite, manganese, and gold, noting that Korea’s technological expertise could support Ghana’s value-addition agenda.
Maritime security and strategic cooperation
The two leaders also discussed maritime security cooperation, particularly efforts to combat piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.
President Mahama noted that one of the agreements signed focuses on strengthening maritime safety and cooperation between the two countries.
Economic recovery and future cooperation
President Mahama further briefed the Korean leader on Ghana’s economic recovery following recent financial challenges, noting that the country has successfully restructured its debt and is experiencing declining inflation and improving economic stability.
He expressed optimism that Ghana would once again benefit from the Economic Development Cooperation Fund to support key development projects.
Visa waiver and global governance reform
Both countries are also expected to sign a visa waiver agreement for diplomatic and official passport holders to facilitate easier exchanges.
President Mahama concluded by expressing Ghana’s commitment to working with Korea to support reforms at the United Nations aimed at improving global representation and cooperation.
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Source:
www.gbcghanaonline.com