By Hannah Dadzie
Ghana and Vietnam have forged partnerships to strengthen bilateral relations dating back to the 1960s. During a bilateral meeting between Ghana and Vietnam to explore areas of cooperation, the two countries aspired to share rich historical bonds of long-lasting friendship which are based on mutual respect and shared aspirations.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, was optimistic that together Ghana and Vietnam will achieve substantial progress and foster an enduring partnership.
Ghana established diplomatic relations with Vietnam on March 28, 1965, becoming the 10th African country and the 26th in the world to do so. As a result, Vietnam opened its Embassy in Accra on November 5, 1965, and closed it in June 1966 after the coup d’état which ousted President Kwame Nkrumah from power.
The bilateral meeting focused on areas including, call for an increase in high level visits between the two countries, a proposal for the appointment of an Hononary Consul of Ghana in Hanoi, and a proposal for the exchange of professionals in the health and education sectors.
The rest are trade promotion, collaboration in rice production and harvesting value chain, cooperation in digital economy cybersecurity, and cooperation in tourism, among others.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Kwaku Ampratwum-Sarpong, said the meeting does not only reaffirm mutual interest but also strengthens the bond of friendship that the two countries have cherished over the years.
“For many Ghanaians of the older generation, Vietnam evokes memories of President Nkrumah’s unsuccessful attempt to mediate in the Vietnam Civil war.
He was unfortunately overthrown before he could reach Hanoi, Vietnam. Although Ghana and Vietnam have no resident Missions in each other’s capitals, relations between our two countries over the years have been cordial and fruitful. Your visit, therefore, symbolizes the beginning of a new chapter in our friendship,” Ampratwum-Sarpong indicated.
Mr Ampratum-Sarpong said the collaboration, which is built on the solid foundations of understanding, respect and shared goals, is destined to reach new heights, setting an exemplary standard for partnership and diplomacy.
“It is therefore my fervent hope and expectation that, together we can rekindle the strong bonds of friendship and cooperation for the benefit of our two countries during this important visit. May the discussions pave the way for a future replete with shared successes and joint endeavours for the prosperity and development of our nations,” the Deputy Minister added.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Nguyen Minh Hang, commended Ghana for its achievements, saying this new chapter will be beneficial to the two countries.
“Despite your political distance, we are closely following the development endeavour in Ghana and we appreciate the tireless efforts that the people and government of Ghana have made in the course of national development, and I firmly believe that, Ghana will successfully achieve major targets and visions in the national medium term development policy framework at 2022, 2025 . We have long story of friendship and comprehensive cooperation. It is very timely for us to bring our relations to our new height,” Ms Minh Hang.
The bilateral meeting between the two countries, symbolises the beginning of a new chapter in friendship and is a testament to the collective commitment towards strengthening ties and exploring new avenues of cooperation.
