Ghana and South Korea are strengthening their bilateral ties, with a focus on areas such as climate change, technology, digital innovation, and maritime security. The two countries had a productive bilateral summit in March, which resulted in concrete outcomes. This was announced by the Korean Ambassador to Ghana, Mr. Kyongsig Park, during a ceremony in Accra to celebrate Korean National Day. The event was attended by high-ranking officials, including ministers of state, Members of Parliament, and members of the Diplomatic Corps.
Mr. Park highlighted that Ghana and Korea share important values and experiences that provide a strong foundation for mutual understanding and a closer partnership. He described Ghana as a valued partner for Korea in regional and international affairs. Ghana's stable democracy and respected leadership in West Africa make it an important player in the international community. Mr. Park emphasized that Korea looks forward to working closely with Ghana in multilateral fora and addressing shared global challenges.
The economic partnership between Korea and Ghana has been steadily expanding over the years. Since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1977, bilateral trade has increased approximately 38-fold. Korean companies have established a growing presence in Ghana, particularly in the manufacturing and fisheries sectors. Mr. Park noted that Korea's friendship with Ghana is supported by a strong and steadily expanding economic partnership.
During the bilateral summit in March, Korea and Ghana officially signed the Framework Agreement for Cooperation on Climate Change. Once the agreement enters into force, it is expected to pave the way for climate-related projects by Korean companies in Ghana. These projects could contribute to efforts by both countries to address climate change, job creation, new economic opportunities, and increased government revenue for Ghana.
Korea's development cooperation with Ghana is broad in scope and geographical reach, covering sectors such as agriculture, health, education, and the environment. The programmes are implemented with support from organizations including the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) and the Korea Eximbank. Mr. Park mentioned that the Korean government had allocated approximately $32 million this year for Official Development Assistance (ODA) projects in Ghana.
The Minister of Lands and Natural Resources, Mr. Emmanuel Armah-Kofi Buah, conveyed President John Dramani Mahama's best wishes and goodwill to Korea, its President, and people. He stated that the relationship between Ghana and Korea continues to flourish as the two countries explore ways to deepen cooperation. Mr. Park also mentioned that Korea looks forward to commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations through a series of meaningful events and engagements.
The 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Ghana and Korea is expected to be marked with a series of events celebrating five decades of friendship and cooperation. The two countries are committed to strengthening their bilateral ties and exploring new areas of cooperation. KEY_POINT: The two countries signed the Framework Agreement for Cooperation on Climate Change. KEY_POINT: Korea allocated $32 million for ODA projects in Ghana this year. KEY_POINT: Bilateral trade between Korea and Ghana has increased approximately 38-fold since 1977.
