Ghana’s Foreign Minister Critiques West’s Focus on War Over Development

Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa criticized Western nations for prioritizing military funding over development at the Raisina Dialogue. He highlighted the $380 billion spent on the Ukraine war, arguing it diverts resources from Africa’s infrastructure needs. Ablakwa called for stronger African leadership to unify against external threats and exploitation, reflecting a broader concern over trust eroding between Africa and the West.

Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, critically addressed Western nations’ allocation of funds towards war rather than development during his remarks at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi on March 18. He emphasized that the extensive financial support for conflicts, particularly the $380 billion spent on the Ukraine war in three years, diverts necessary resources from tackling Africa’s infrastructure crisis.

Ablakwa articulated his disappointment that the G20, originally intended to promote industrialization and economic growth, is shifting focus away from international development. He stated that significant funds are being redirected to support the Ukraine war, contributing to a loss of trust between African nations and Western powers, including Europe, the US, and the UN, which often misuses veto powers.

He advocated for stronger leadership from African nations to address this gap, criticizing the lack of trusted leadership since the Cold War. He pointed out that nations such as South Africa and India have upheld the principles of non-alignment, stressing that unity among nations is crucial, stating, “There’s no winner in the war, and it’s better that we come together.”

Moreover, Ablakwa raised concerns about external threats facing Africa, noting that certain actors exploit divisions on the continent through a divide and rule strategy. He indicated that the ongoing struggles for Africa’s resources—such as uranium, gold, diamonds, bauxite, and timber—exemplify these threats. He highlighted the need for African nations to prepare against potential exploitation, referring to historical patterns of slavery and colonialism, asserting the presence of neo-colonial actors attempting to sow discord and exploit Africa’s wealth.

In summary, Ghana’s Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa criticized Western nations for prioritizing military funding over developmental aid, resulting in a significant distrust from African nations. He called for enhanced leadership within Africa to mitigate external threats and exploitation, emphasizing unity and collaboration among nations as essential to overcoming these challenges. The ongoing diversion of resources away from development to war efforts raises urgent concerns regarding global priorities and Africa’s future growth prospects.

Original Source: www.firstpost.com