By Rebecca Ekpe
‘’In recent times, it has become evident that more Ghanaians are opting to migrate to Canada in search of work and education opportunities’’, and due to this movement, there is now ‘’a significant Ghanaian diaspora population that serves as a bridge between our two nations, promoting even greater understanding and collaboration.’’
Mr. Ignatius Baffour-Awuah, Minister of Employment and Labour Relations, hinted while representing the Government of Ghana at the 157th Canada Day in Accra.
He was categorical that Canada has commercial opportunities that provide the grounds to better the lives of Ghanaians and also alleviate poverty, promote and enhance development.
Mr. Baffour Awuah said, ‘’we are however keen on building a commercial association with Canada that will stimulate economic growth, which will be beneficial to the financial well-being of our two peoples.”
‘’Our fertile political landscape can only be sustained through trade and investment from economic partners whose investments in the local economy will stimulate the needed growth that is likely to help with the government’s continuous effort to alleviate poverty and mitigate hardship for the good people of this country,’’ he reiterated.
The Minister highlighted the bi-lateral relations between Ghana and Canada and how a strengthened bilateral relationship between Canada and Ghana has contributed to sustainable development in Ghana.
‘’Canada has consistently supported Ghana in the fields of energy, water supply, agriculture, science education, and technical assistance, among others. Through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), Ghana has and continues to receive significant support and expertise in these critical areas, leading to improved capacity in various sectors and the livelihoods of its citizens, particularly those in rural communities.’’
On the multilateral front, Ghana and Canada continue to cooperate in promoting the work of the United Nations, the Commonwealth and La Francophonie. These shared values, Mr. Ignatius Baffour noted, are one of ‘’promoting peace and good governance’’, and have signified the hallmark of collaboration and further solidified Ghana and Canada’s commitment to shared global stability and prosperity.
