Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has announced his country's support for Ghana's bid to join BRICS as a partner country. This development was revealed by Ghana's Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, after a breakfast meeting between Lavrov and African foreign ministers at the Russia-Africa Summit. Ablakwa expressed Ghana's appreciation for Russia's backing.
The move is seen as a significant boost to Ghana's efforts to secure backing from BRICS members. Ablakwa had previously clarified that Ghana is seeking partner-country status rather than full membership of the bloc. This status would allow Ghana to expand opportunities for trade, consultation, and cooperation on regional and global issues. Ghana already maintains strong relations with BRICS member countries.
According to Ablakwa, Ghana's engagement with BRICS would not come at the expense of its traditional international partners. The country's Foreign Affairs Minister cited Article 40 of Ghana's 1992 Constitution, which outlines the country's foreign policy principles. These principles include the promotion of national interests and international cooperation. Ghana's initiative aligns with its commitment to non-alignment.
The Mahama administration has reiterated its commitment to upholding Ghana's longstanding foreign policy of non-alignment. This policy emphasizes maintaining friendly relations with countries across different political and ideological groupings. Ablakwa stated that the administration will continue to pursue diversified development options in Ghana's national interest.
If approved, Ghana would join the BRICS partner-country category, distinct from full membership. The application will require consensus support from the bloc's members. Russia has pledged to rally all founding BRICS members to ensure consensus support for Ghana. This development follows India's support for Ghana's bid.
Ablakwa described Lavrov as a "revered colleague and great friend." The announcement has been seen as a significant step forward in Ghana's efforts to secure BRICS partner-country status. The country's bid is expected to strengthen its position in international affairs.
The Russia-Africa Summit provided a platform for Lavrov to announce his country's support for Ghana's bid. The summit brought together African foreign ministers and other stakeholders to discuss issues of mutual interest. Ghana's application for BRICS partner-country status is expected to be considered in the coming months.
Key points
- Russia supports Ghana's application for BRICS partner-country status.
- Ghana is seeking partner-country status rather than full membership of BRICS.
- The application will require consensus support from the bloc's members.
