By: Mercy Darko
President Akufo-Addo has pledged government’s commitment to collaborate with the Federal Republic of Germany to find solutions to challenges such as poverty, migration, insecurity, human rights violation and terrorism.
While soliciting the support of Germany and other European countries to ensure that Africa is permanently represented on the UN Security Council, President Akufo-Addo said Ghana is focused on building an industrialized economy and is therefore open for strategic engagement for mutual benefit.
President Akufo-Addo made these remarks when he held a luncheon in honour of the German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz at the Jubilee House.
President Akufo-Addo together with Mr. Scholz later also addressed gathering at the Kofi Annan Peacekeeping and Training Center in Accra.
The German Government is involved in a wide range of activities in Ghana. It is the biggest supporter of the Kofi Annan International Peacekeeping Training Centre, which trains personnel for peacekeeping missions of the United Nations, the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
In addition, it helps to train and equip the Ghanaian Army and Police.
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s visit to Ghana which is his first since he assumed office indicate the urgent need for Germany to strengthen ties with Africa especially Ghana.
Discussions between President Akufo-Addo and Olaf Scholz centered on energy, peace and security, climate change and the economy.
President Akufo-Addo said Ghana is still committed to building an economy beyond aid and is focused on forging strategic partnership with Germany.
He was passionate about the reforms to make Africa a permanent member of the UN Security Council stressing that peace and security are key for development.
For his part, German Chancellor, Olaf Scholz indicated that Ghana is a beacon of hope for the region because the country has held on to its democracy and good governance ensuring peace and security.
He stressed that Germany is prepared to support by providing training among other things to promote peace and stability in the Sub region.
During the visit, Mr Scholz also visited Ashesi University.
He has since left the country.
