By Hannah Dadzie
Government has honoured Diplomatic Missions and International Organisations for their contribution during the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Speaking at the award ceremony in Accra, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey said the awards does not only recognize the efforts of the donor partners but also provides a unique opportunity to strengthen bilateral and multilateral alliances in the face of the rapidly changing global landscape.
She was hopeful that the health diplomacy will endure for the mutual benefit of all partners.
“It is my fervent hope that health diplomacy will endure for the mutual benefit of all partners as we rally around the shared principles and values, which defines our common interest.”Madam Ayorkor Botchwey said
Ghana recorded its first two cases of the deadly virus in March 12, 2020, compelling Government to introduce a raft of measures to contain the virus. Support from donor partners through donations of various essentials such as personal protective equipment (PPEs), and vaccines, among others, were crucial in the country’s fight against the pandemic. The government in March this year presented some awards to some individuals and institutions in recognition of their commitment to the socio-economic development of the country.
The Awards to Diplomatic Missions and International Organisations is part of the government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs policy to solidarity, while acknowledging the representatives of countries and institutions who in diverse ways contributed to the management during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey commended the development partners for their unwavering support during the unprecedented COVID-19 pandemic which the World Health Organization, WHO has declared to be no longer a global emergency.
“Indeed the collective effort of your support towards Ghana’s developmental agenda are truly immeasurable. This partnership has been exemplified through the provision of Personal Protective Equipment, PPEs, various vaccines and other crucial medical supplies during the global COVID-19 pandemic. It therefore gives us the pleasure to present these awards to you on behalf of His Excellency, the President and the government and people of Ghana in recognition of your unwavering friendship and goodwill particularly during a time when we all needed to be each other’s keeper.” She noted
Acting Chief Director of the Ministry, Ambassador Ramses Cleland said the level of collaboration shown during the COVID-19 crisis and the lessons learnt should propel countries and institutions globally to form a common approach towards global challenges for sustainable and inclusive development.
“We may be out of the woods for now but the bonds of friendship and solidarity that were displayed during that trying times would stand as a lasting testament to our partnership some years to come” Ambassador Cleland.
Honorary Consul of Greece in Ghana, Marianna Gavriel, who spoke on behalf of all Diplomatic Missions and International Organizations, expressed gratitude to government for the honor. She said they will continue to work tirelessly towards further strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between their great nations.
“Our deepest gratitude for the distinguish honour bestowed on us by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Republic of Ghana. This recognition and encouragement further inspire us to continue our relationship in strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our nations. Furthermore, the unwavering support and assistance provided by various countries have truly exemplified the spirit of global unity. Through solidarity and collaboration, we have over the crisis and have emerged stronger than ever.” Madam Gavriel
Diplomatic Missions and International Organisations awarded include the British High Commission, United States of America, Norway, Japan, United Arab Emirates, Hungary, Ireland, Iceland, Greece, Germany, France, Estonia, Canada, Malta, Luxemburg, and Austria. The others are European Union, African Union, COVAX, USAID, US Center for Disease Control, Centre for Disease Surveillance and Janssen Pharmaceuticals.
