Ghana and Serbia Strengthen Bilateral Relations
Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has welcomed Serbian Minister for Foreign Affairs, H.E. Marko Đurić, to Ghana for a three-day official visit. The visit marks a significant milestone in the evolving relationship between the two countries, reflecting a renewed commitment to deepen cooperation and strengthen bonds of friendship.
Historical Ties and Cooperation
During their bilateral discussions, both ministers acknowledged the cordial and long-standing relations between Ghana and Serbia, dating back to the era of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. They highlighted their shared history in the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) and the construction of the Accra International Conference Centre, built through Serbian expertise to host the 10th Ministerial meeting of NAM in 1991.
Economic Cooperation and Trade
The ministers discussed expanding their relations and cooperation at both bilateral and multilateral levels. They noted the potential for increased trade and economic cooperation, urging private sectors to explore avenues for collaboration in various sectors. Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs extended an invitation to the Serbian business community to partner with Ghanaian counterparts, leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Agreement and Ghana’s stable political environment.
Maritime Cooperation and Security
Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs commended Serbia for supporting Ghana’s maritime sector through the collaboration between the Ghana Maritime Authority and Vlatacom Research and Development Institute of Serbia. This partnership aims to upgrade Ghana’s Vessel Traffic Management and Information System (VTMIS), extending the reach of Over the Horizon (OTH) Surveillance Technology along Ghana’s coastline.
Climate Change and Education
Both countries acknowledged the urgent need for collective action to combat climate change and mitigate its adverse effects. They agreed to collaborate closely, leveraging expertise and resources to adopt innovative solutions and promote renewable energy. Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs also expressed appreciation for Serbia’s scholarship program for Ghanaian students and advocated for its expansion to cover critical sectors like medicine.
Future Engagements
During the visit, H.E. Đurić is expected to engage with Ghanaian officials, including the Speaker of Parliament and Ministers of Food and Agriculture, Tourism, Culture and Creative Arts, Sports and Recreation, and Defence. Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) on Sports and Cooperation in the field of Culture are expected to be signed, aiming to deepen cooperation between the two countries in these sectors.
