Ghana Enhances Diplomatic Relations with Madagascar and St. Lucia, Strengthens Ties with Trinidad and Tobago

Ghana has established diplomatic relations with Madagascar and St. Lucia, and has signed an investment protection agreement with Trinidad and Tobago. The foreign ministers of the respective nations participated in these agreements during the UN General Assembly. Discussions included advances in intra-Africa trade and preparations for the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting.

Ghana has taken significant steps to strengthen its international relationships, having signed two communiqués to establish diplomatic relations with both Madagascar and St. Lucia. These agreements were formalized during brief ceremonies held alongside the UN General Assembly, taking place on a Tuesday. Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Shirley Botchwey, represented her nation in these discussions, while her counterparts, Ms. Rasata Rafaravavitafika from Madagascar and Mr. Alva Baptiste from St. Lucia, signed on behalf of their countries. During their meeting, Ms. Rafaravavitafika and Ms. Botchwey explored opportunities and benefits associated with intra-Africa trade. Ms. Rafaravavitafika announced that Madagascar intends to sign the African Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) pact in the forthcoming month. Ghana, an early signatory of this pivotal trade agreement, also hosts the AfCFTA secretariat in its capital, Accra, highlighting its strategic role in advancing African trade initiatives. Furthermore, Foreign Minister Shirley Botchwey and Dr. Amery Browne, the Foreign Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, formalized an Agreement on the Reciprocal Promotion and Protection of Investment (ARPPI). Both ministers expressed their satisfaction with the agreement, which aims to enhance bilateral trade through mutual economic cooperation, safeguarding investors’ rights, and preventing unlawful expropriation. Although current trade levels between Ghana and Trinidad and Tobago are somewhat modest, there is a recognized presence of the Republic Bank of Trinidad and Tobago operating within Ghana. In addition, discussions between the two ministers included preparations for the upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) scheduled to occur in four weeks in Samoa. Notably, Ms. Botchwey is currently viewed as a strong candidate to succeed Baroness Patricia Scotland as Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. Moreover, Ms. Botchwey has engaged in bilateral discussions with Lord Collins, the British Under-Secretary of State for the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, as well as with Mr. Joseph Andall, the Foreign Minister of Grenada, further highlighting Ghana’s active diplomatic efforts on the international stage.

The establishment of diplomatic relations signifies Ghana’s commitment to fostering international collaboration and enhancing its role within the community of nations. Establishing ties with Madagascar and St. Lucia, along with a vital investment agreement with Trinidad and Tobago, underlines Ghana’s strategic approach in expanding its diplomatic and economic horizons. Moreover, Ghana’s involvement in the African Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) showcases its dedication to regional trade integration, vital for economic growth in Africa. The impending Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) presents another opportunity for Ghana to assert itself on the global platform, particularly with the candidacy of Ms. Botchwey for the Secretary-General position.

In conclusion, Ghana’s recent diplomatic engagements demonstrate its proactive approach to international relations and commitment to enhancing economic cooperation, particularly within Africa and the Caribbean. The reciprocal investment agreement aims to strengthen economic ties with Trinidad and Tobago while the establishment of diplomatic relations with Madagascar and St. Lucia opens avenues for increased trade and collaboration. As Ghana prepares for significant upcoming meetings and Ms. Botchwey’s candidacy for a prestigious role within the Commonwealth, these developments mark a pivotal moment in Ghana’s foreign policy and international diplomacy.

Original Source: www.modernghana.com