Ghana's Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced that the country's Cabinet has decided for Ghana to join the BRICS alliance as a partner country. This move is part of the government's efforts to expand Ghana's economic options and diversify its international partnerships. By joining BRICS, Ghana aims to strengthen its engagement with countries in the Global South and create opportunities for deeper South-South cooperation.
According to Ablakwa, Ghana's membership in BRICS could provide the country with alternative economic and diplomatic partnerships. The Minister made this disclosure on TV3's Key Points program on Saturday, October 10. He stated that the Cabinet of President John Dramani Mahama has decided for Ghana to join BRICS, highlighting the potential benefits of membership, including access to new economic options and diversified partnerships.
Ablakwa explained that Ghana wants to start as a partner country and gradually progress to full membership as the situation evolves. This approach will allow Ghana to explore the benefits of BRICS membership while also assessing the implications of full membership. The Minister emphasized that joining BRICS will give Ghana more economic options, diversify its partnerships, and enhance cooperation within the Global South framework.
The BRICS alliance is an intergovernmental organization and geopolitical coalition comprising 11 core member nations and 10 partner countries. The group represents roughly 49.5% of the global population and 40% of world GDP, operating as an informal economic powerhouse designed to amplify the voice of the Global South and counterbalance Western-dominated institutions.
Ghana and India are also set to deepen cooperation in various areas, including railway development, pharmaceuticals, ICT, defence, agriculture, science, and technology. The two countries have signed two Memoranda of Understanding covering agriculture and science and technology as part of efforts to strengthen their comprehensive partnership. This cooperation aims to promote economic development and strengthen bilateral relations between Ghana and India.
The Minister's disclosure signals Ghana's intention to deepen its engagement with emerging economies as the government seeks to broaden the country's international economic partnerships. By joining BRICS, Ghana aims to reduce its dependence on traditional Western partners and explore new opportunities for economic growth and development. This move is expected to have a positive impact on Ghana's economy and international relations.
The decision to join BRICS as a partner country reflects Ghana's commitment to diversifying its international partnerships and exploring new economic opportunities. The government believes that membership in BRICS will provide Ghana with a stronger voice in global economic affairs and enhance its cooperation with other emerging economies. As Ghana begins its engagement with BRICS, the government will continue to assess the implications of membership and explore ways to maximize its benefits.
Key points
- Ghana to start as partner country in BRICS, with plans to progress to full membership.
