Ghana Forms Diplomatic Relations with Madagascar and Saint Lucia

Ghana has established diplomatic relations with Madagascar and Saint Lucia, signing related communiques during the UN General Assembly. Additionally, it signed an investment protection agreement with Trinidad and Tobago, aiming to enhance bilateral trade and cooperation.

Ghana recently took significant diplomatic steps by formalizing relations with both Madagascar and Saint Lucia through the signing of communiques. This momentous occasion occurred on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly, with Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Honorable Shirley Botchwey, representing her nation in the agreements signed with her counterparts, Ms. Rasata Rafaravavitafika of Madagascar and Mr. Alva Baptiste of Saint Lucia. During these brief ceremonial engagements, Minister Rafaravavitafika and Minister Botchwey explored the benefits of intra-African trade, highlighting Madagascar’s anticipated ratification of the African Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) in the upcoming month. Notably, Ghana was one of the first nations to sign the AfCFTA and serves as the host for its secretariat in Accra, an Indicator of its commitment to promoting trade within the continent. Additionally, Minister Botchwey also engaged with Dr. Amery Browne, Trinidad and Tobago’s Foreign Minister, resulting in the signing of an Agreement on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment (ARPPI). This agreement is projected to enhance bilateral trading relations by fostering economic cooperation, safeguarding investors’ rights, and preventing unlawful expropriation of investments. Despite current limited trade between Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago, the relationship is underscored by the presence of the Republic Bank from Trinidad and Tobago in Ghana, which is expanding its operations. As part of the discussions, both ministers also touched upon the approaching Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), scheduled to take place in Samoa in four weeks. Minister Botchwey is viewed as a prominent candidate among three contenders for the role of Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, succeeding Baroness Patricia Scotland of Dominica. Furthermore, Minister Botchwey held discussions with Lord Collins, British Under-Secretary of State for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, along with Mr. Joseph Andall, the Foreign Minister of Grenada, further fostering diplomatic ties.

The establishment of diplomatic relations between Ghana, Madagascar, and Saint Lucia underscores Ghana’s proactive approach to international relations and economic growth in the context of African development. Diplomatic ties contribute to cooperation in trade, investment, and cultural exchange. The recent engagements highlight Ghana’s role in facilitating intra-African trade and aligning with continental agreements such as the AfCFTA, which aims to accelerate economic integration across Africa. Furthermore, the Agreement on Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment with Trinidad and Tobago signifies Ghana’s intention to enhance bilateral economic cooperation with Caribbean nations, reflecting a broader strategy to diversify and strengthen its international partnerships.

In summary, Ghana’s recent formalization of diplomatic relations with Madagascar and Saint Lucia, along with the investment protection agreement with Trinidad and Tobago, exemplifies its commitment to economic cooperation and enhanced trade relations. These agreements not only bolster Ghana’s role in regional trade initiatives like the AfCFTA but also pave the way for increased foreign investment and diplomatic engagement as Ghana positions itself as a key player in both African and global contexts.

Original Source: www.modernghana.com