Ghana, Belarus Sign Three Agreements to Deepen Economic Ties
Ghana and Belarus have signed three Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) covering trade and economic cooperation, chamber of commerce collaboration and agriculture, marking a new chapter in relations between the two countries since they established diplomatic ties in 1992.
The agreements were signed on Monday in Minsk during President John Dramani Mahama’s state visit to Belarus.
Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa signed the memorandum governing a joint commission on cooperation in trade and economy, while Ghana’s Ambassador to Russia, Dr Steem Jehu-Appiah, signed the one on cooperation between the chambers of commerce of both countries.
Food and Agriculture Minister Eric Opoku signed the memorandum on cooperation in agriculture.
Speaking at a joint press conference with Belarusian President Aleksandr Grigorievich Lukashenko after the signing, Mahama said the documents go beyond diplomatic achievement.
He said they create a practical foundation for the private sector and state institutions of both countries to work together more effectively and eliminate barriers in communication between Ghana and Belarus.
The President said the agreements will open new opportunities for economic growth and technological development, and that he is confident the visit will open a new page in the history of relations between the two countries.
“I hope that the result will be not only the agreements that we signed today, but specific actions that will benefit the citizens of both countries,” he said.
Mahama said Ghana is looking to Belarus for agricultural mechanisation, technology and research expertise to modernise its farming sector and strengthen food security.
He said Belarus has a strong reputation in agricultural mechanisation, production and research, making it a natural partner for Ghana’s agricultural transformation agenda. Beyond agriculture, he said the two countries will also work together in education, renewable energy and industry.
The President made a direct pitch to Belarusian businesses, pointing to Ghana’s stable economy, young population, improving infrastructure and rich market as attractive conditions for investors.
He said Ghana will welcome a Belarusian business delegation to explore cooperation further and extended an open invitation to Belarusian investors to consider the opportunities available in the country.
Mahama also placed the bilateral relationship within a broader philosophy of building balanced and inclusive partnerships among Global South nations. He said equal partnerships are essential in a world facing food insecurity, climate change and geopolitical tensions, and that Ghana and Belarus, both representing the Global South, share a commitment to working toward common prosperity.
“We, representing the Global South, will be happy to build such partnerships with all the countries that are ready to build a more balanced and inclusive world order,” he added.
Richard Aniagyei, ISD
