President John Dramani Mahama of Ghana has expressed appreciation for Russian President Vladimir Putin's willingness to engage in trilateral talks to resolve the conflict with Ukraine. Speaking at the Third Russia–Africa Summit in Moscow, President Mahama emphasized the need for a lasting peace agreement to ensure security for both Russia and Ukraine. He highlighted the devastating impact of global conflicts on human lives and the economy.
President Mahama called for international cooperation to combat terrorism, particularly in the Alliance of Sahelian States. He also invited Russian businesses to invest in Ghana's agro-processing, fertiliser production, agricultural machinery, pharmaceuticals, energy, transport infrastructure, and digital economy sectors. Ghana offers opportunities in cocoa, cashew, shea nuts, horticulture, mineral processing, and manufacturing, with the potential to access the African Continental Free Trade Area.
President Mahama reaffirmed Ghana's commitment to non-alignment and sought partnerships that advance the country's development priorities. He noted that trade between Africa and Russia has room for growth and advocated for mechanisms that facilitate legitimate trade settlements, including local currencies and digital payment systems. This would help strengthen economic ties between the two regions.
The Ghanaian President identified inadequate electric power as a significant obstacle to Africa's progress and highlighted Russia's expertise in renewable and nuclear energy. He revealed that Ghana has initiated discussions with Rosatom to establish the country's first nuclear power station. This move aims to address Ghana's energy needs and support sustainable development.
President Mahama emphasized the importance of reliable and competitively priced fertiliser for food security. He called for investment in local production and blending, as well as cooperation in soil mapping, precision agriculture, and satellite-guided farming. Additionally, he expressed Ghana's interest in exploring a Russia–Africa Digital Innovation and Artificial Intelligence Programme.
President Mahama expressed gratitude to Russia for its historical support during colonialism and apartheid, as well as for training thousands of African students. He noted that his own educational experience in Moscow, where he studied on a full scholarship from 1986 to 1988, symbolized the friendship between the Russian and Ghanaian people. As Ghana prepares to mark 70 years of independence, President Mahama acknowledged Russia's solidarity in Africa's decolonization.
In conclusion, President Mahama urged delegates to commit to concrete actions and emphasized that the progress of African communities and people's lives would be the most lasting expression of Russia-Africa friendship. He encouraged collaboration and cooperation to drive development and address common challenges facing both regions.
Key points
- President Mahama commends Putin's willingness to resume Ukraine talks.
- Ghana seeks partnerships with Russia in various sectors, including energy and agriculture.
- President Mahama thanks Russia for its historical support to Africa.
