BENELUX Delegation Meets Delegates in Ghana

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Accra, 6 June 2023 (TDI): Luxembourg’s Foreign Minister, Asselborn, and the BENELUX delegation met with Ghana’s civil society representatives to discuss different topics such as women’s rights, youth empowerment, economic development in the north, and regional security. The visit aimed to reinforce friendship and deepen collaboration between the parties.

Ghana received praise for its resolute support against global aggression and upholding multilateralism. The Netherlands’ Minister of Foreign Affairs, Wokpe Hoekstra, commended Ghana as a beacon of democracy and for vocalizing concerns on global security, including Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

The BENELUX Union (Belgium, Netherlands, Luxembourg) engaged in discussions with Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchway. Topics included general security, food security, trade, migration, and climate change.

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Ghana’s public condemnation of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine earned recognition as one of the few African countries to denounce the aggression. The BENELUX delegation expressed gratitude for Ghana’s unwavering support and commitment to international law.

The meeting addressed growing instability in the Sahel region and the potential spillover of extremism to coastal West Africa. Diplomatic interventions were emphasized to bring warring parties to the negotiating table and end the devastating war.

Trade relations were a significant focus, acknowledging BENELUX companies’ presence in Ghana and their contributions to the private sector, job creation, and socio-economic development. Ghana invited BENELUX businesses to partner with locals, leveraging opportunities through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

Both parties committed to deepening relations for mutual benefit. The EU emphasized the need for a diplomatic solution to the Russia-Ukraine war, while Ghana expressed dedication to working together.

Representatives from the BENELUX Union, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Ministry, and Albert Kan Dapaah, Minister of National Security, attended the meeting. The visit strengthens ties and cooperation between Ghana and BENELUX countries, exemplifying their shared commitment.