Ghana Congratulates U.S. on 250th Independence Anniversary, Hails 7 Decades of Partnership

President John Dramani Mahama has conveyed Ghana’s congratulations and goodwill to the Government and people of the United States of America as they mark 250 years of independence.

In a message to U.S. President Donald J. Trump, President Mahama said the milestone reflects an enduring friendship between the two nations built on shared values of democracy, human rights, and prosperity.

“Enduring Friendship Shaped by Common Values”
“As we join in the celebration of another milestone, it is my deep conviction that the enduring friendship and cooperation between our two countries will continue to be shaped by values and common interests,” President Mahama wrote.

He highlighted the rule of law, human rights, democracy, and the shared aspiration for economic prosperity as the foundation of the Ghana-U.S. partnership.

Seven Decades of Ties Dating to 1957
Ghana and the U.S. have enjoyed cordial relations since Ghana’s independence in 1957. The U.S. was among the first countries to establish diplomatic ties with Ghana that same year.

At Ghana’s independence celebration, Washington sent a high-level delegation led by then Vice President Richard Nixon. He was accompanied by civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and diplomat Ralph Bunche — a visit President Mahama said “laid a formidable foundation” for bilateral relations.

Key Milestones in the Partnership
Over the past 70 years, cooperation has expanded across trade, infrastructure, and social development. Major highlights include:
– Akosombo Dam and the Volta Aluminium Company (VALCO)
– Millennium Challenge Compact (MCC) projects
– Africa Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) trade benefits
– Strong collaboration in health, education, and other social sectors

The two countries have also exchanged several landmark high-level visits. U.S. Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, and Barack Obama all made historic trips to Ghana in 1998, 2008, and 2009 respectively.

From Ghana’s side, Presidents Jerry John Rawlings, John Agyekum Kufuor, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, and John Dramani Mahama have undertaken official and working visits to the U.S. to deepen cooperation.

People-to-People Ties
President Mahama also lauded the strong people-to-people connections, noting that educational and cultural exchanges between Ghanaians and Americans continue to strengthen mutual understanding.

He concluded his message by wishing the government and people of the United States “a peaceful, joyous and successful 250th anniversary celebration.”