Ghana and Germany have agreed to strengthen their cooperation in various areas, including railway infrastructure, economic relations, labour mobility, and cultural heritage. The discussions took place when Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa met Germany’s Federal Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dr Johann Wadephul, on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York. The meeting focused on advancing cooperation in areas of mutual interest between the two countries.
Railway infrastructure and engineering were among the key issues discussed, as Ghana seeks strategic partners to support efforts to revamp its rail transport system. Mr Ablakwa said the two ministers discussed opportunities for German companies to expand their operations in Ghana. This move is expected to boost economic cooperation between the two nations and create new opportunities for businesses.
Migration and labour mobility also featured prominently in the discussions, with the two sides following up on negotiations towards structured labour exchange programmes. The proposed programmes would create legal pathways for skilled Ghanaian workers to access employment opportunities in Germany. This development is expected to benefit both countries and promote economic growth.
On irregular migration, the minister said Ghana and Germany agreed on the need to address the underlying factors driving the phenomenon. The two countries believe that through skills development, education, and employment opportunities, they can resolve the causal factors of irregular migration. This approach is expected to reduce the incidence of irregular migration.
Mr Ablakwa commended the German government for its engagement with Ghana on the country’s reparatory justice agenda. He particularly highlighted cooperation on the return and restitution of cultural properties and heritage. This cooperation is seen as a positive step towards strengthening cultural ties between the two countries.
Dr Wadephul has invited Mr Ablakwa to undertake a working visit to Germany to follow up on the issues discussed. The proposed visit is expected to provide an opportunity for the two sides to advance discussions on railway development, labour mobility, economic cooperation, migration, and cultural heritage. The visit is seen as a significant step towards deepening cooperation between Ghana and Germany.
The strengthened cooperation between Ghana and Germany is expected to have a positive impact on the economic and social development of both countries. The two countries are committed to working together to promote economic growth, reduce irregular migration, and strengthen cultural ties. The cooperation is seen as a model for other countries to follow.
Key points
- - Strengthening railway infrastructure and economic cooperation - Promoting labour mobility and structured labour exchange programmes - Addressing irregular migration through skills development and education
