By: Rachel Kakraba
French Minister of State for Development, Francophonie and International Partnerships, madam Chrysoula Zacharopoulou, has pledged commitment of France to Ghana to deal with terrorism.
She noted threats of terrorism on the African sub region is one that threatens peace of the world, a reason France is determined to promote the stability, democracy and dialogue of Africa.
“Just to speak about the regional situation, we share a common determination to promote peace, stability and democracy and of course dialogue in this region. France is fully committed to supporting Ghana and the neighbour countries in the fight against terrorism”
Madam Zacharopoulou said this during a news conference to crown activities of her three day state visit to the country.
The visit was informed by President Emmanuel Macron’s new Foreign policy on Africa based on mutual respect, equality and reciprocity. It sees Africa as a key player in the world, and that if Africa fails, Europe and France cannot thrive.
Madam Zacharopoulou, said Ghana is an important partner of France and it is critical such relations are re-assessed and deepened for the mutual benefit of both countries.
“Ghana is a very important partner for France, we have excellent relations and it is a crucial time for your country and it was very important for me to be here and to re-assess the friendship, and my strong commitment”
Madam Zacharopoulou who had bilateral talks with president Akufo-Addo, expressed appreciation to Ghanaians for the warm reception.
She said France-Ghana relation is one that is strong and productive which must be strengthened at all times.
She said there are a lot of areas that the two countries could have cooperation such as culture, sports, education, economic investment and regional security.
“I would like to thank of course president Akufo-Addo and all the Ghanaian people for the welcome. I would like to say that I was impressed by the activity and the vitality and innovation of your country and of course your people. And I saw that there is a profound desire to deepen our relationship with France”
Madam Zacharopoulou who visited the Osu Castle as part of the visit described it as a moving experience. She said France will support initiatives by Ghana to preserve its national heritage sites.
“It was extremely moving to visit the Osu Castle. It was a horror of slave trade, which took place many many years ago. France is fully committed to memorial dialogue to collectively pick big lessons from history.”
The minister who also paid a courtesy call on the chief of Osu said “I was very honorured also to be received by the king of Osu and we had a productive conversation on essential topics and particularly regarding the education of the population”
Madam Zacharopoulou, has been on a three nation African Tour of Benin, Togo and Ghana. The visit was an opportunity for France to highlight several areas of priorities for renewed partnership with Africa.
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