Ghana and India have agreed to strengthen their cooperation in various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, railway development, digital technology, and defence. This development follows bilateral talks between Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, and India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, in Accra. The two countries aim to give practical meaning to their newly established comprehensive partnership. This partnership seeks to leverage India's expertise in areas crucial to Ghana's development.
Ghana is particularly interested in India's experience in pharmaceutical production as it works to establish a pharmaceutical hub in the country. The government aims to build resilience and ensure health sovereignty under President Mahama's philosophy. India is seen as a strategic partner in strengthening health security, expanding railway infrastructure, and developing digital skills. This cooperation is expected to enhance Ghana's healthcare system and contribute to its economic growth.
Railway development is another key area of cooperation between Ghana and India. Ghana seeks Indian expertise to expand its rail infrastructure and reduce pressure on the country's roads. The increasing movement of heavy cargo by road contributes to road deterioration and traffic congestion, making rail transport a more sustainable option. The Tema-Mpakadan Railway Line is an example of existing cooperation between the two countries in this sector.
Ghana is also looking to India for support in strengthening its digital economy and developing the skills needed to drive technological transformation. India's experience in information and communication technology will be useful to Ghana's One Million Coders programme. This programme aims to equip Ghanaian youth with digital skills, enhancing their employability and contributing to the country's technological advancement.
Dr. Jaishankar noted that Ghana and India face many similar development challenges, creating opportunities for both countries to share experiences and expertise. He stated that India is prepared to explore further cooperation with Ghana in areas including pharmaceuticals and health, mining, defence, railways, and digital technology. This cooperation will help both countries address their development challenges more effectively.
The two countries have also signed memoranda of understanding on agricultural research and training, as well as biodiversity, during Dr. Jaishankar's visit. The Indian business community in Ghana was highlighted as an important link between the two countries, with Indian companies contributing to sectors including pharmaceuticals and healthcare, poultry, and renewable energy. These existing relationships will support the deepening of cooperation between Ghana and India.
Ghana and India are expected to hold the next Ghana-India Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation early next year to advance discussions and translate their new comprehensive partnership into concrete areas of cooperation. This commission will provide a platform for both countries to review progress, identify new areas of cooperation, and strengthen their bilateral relations.
Key points
- Ghana and India to deepen cooperation in pharmaceuticals, railways, and digital technology.
- The two countries signed MoUs on agricultural research and biodiversity.
- The next Ghana-India Permanent Joint Commission for Cooperation to be held early next year.
