By Hannah Dadzie
The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, paid a working visit to the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka from 18th -20th August 2024, during which she held discussions with her counterpart M.U.M. Ali Sabry.
The meeting focused on bilateral matters aimed at strengthening the relations between Ghana and Sri Lanka and exploring opportunities for enhanced cooperation.
At a meeting which was held on Monday, 19th August 2024, the two leaders reaffirmed their country’s commitment to bolstering economic, cultural, and political ties, marking a significant milestone in Ghana and Sri Lanka relations. The Ministers emphasized the importance of mutual support at the international fora and explored opportunities for collaboration in trade and investment, tourism, renewable energy, textile and garment industry, among others.
A key outcome of the discussions was the agreement to organise a business forum comprising relevant stakeholders from Ghana and Sri Lanka to foster dialogue, exchange ideas, and explore potential partnerships that could drive mutual economic growth and development. In pursuit of the above, both parties recognised the need to appoint Honorary Consuls in each other’s country to facilitate diplomatic engagement, promote bilateral trade, and strengthen cultural and economic ties between Ghana and Sri Lanka.
Climate change featured prominently in the discussions and both leaders reiterated the need for a united voice in advocating for stronger global climate action. They stressed the importance of enhancing collaborative efforts to tackle environmental challenges and supporting initiatives that advance sustainable development.
Madam Ayorkor Botchwey seized the opportunity to officially announce her candidature for the position of Secretary-General of the Commonwealth and presented her vision for the organisation. She emphasised the shared values and aspirations that both nations contribute to the Commonwealth family and expressed confidence that Ghana’s leadership could advance the Commonwealth’s mission of fostering democracy, good governance, development, and global peace.
She highlighted her six key agenda areas namely: Democracy, Commonwealth Values and Realizing the Democratic Dividend; Trade and Investment; Youth, Education, Skills, Innovation and Start-ups; Climate Change; Small Island States and Small States; and managing resources for an effective Commonwealth Institution.
The meeting concluded with both Ministers expressing optimism about the future of Ghana-Sri Lanka relations and the potential for enhanced collaboration across various sectors. They agreed to maintain high-level engagements to further strengthen their partnership and collaborate on shared objectives at the international fora.
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