BRICS Partnership will Broaden Trade and Investment Opportunities- President Mahama
Ghana’s application for partnership with the BRICS group is intended to broaden the country’s trade and investment opportunities, deepen cooperation with emerging economies and support industrialisation, President John Dramani Mahama has said.
He made this known during the commissioning of four ambassadors-designate, where he charged Ghana’s diplomatic envoys to clearly communicate the country’s approach to international partnerships and pursue opportunities that align with its development priorities.
“Ghana’s decision to apply for partnership with the BRICS countries reflects our determination to broaden our development partnerships and deepen South-South cooperation,” President Mahama stated.
He urged the envoys to explain how the proposed partnership could open up opportunities for Ghanaian businesses, attract investment and strengthen the country’s productive capacity.
“Explain this approach clearly as we seek wider opportunities for trade, investment, industrialisation, and value addition, while sustaining our long-standing relationships and working relations with our traditional partners,” he said.
President Mahama said Ghana’s international engagements must help the country access markets, technology and expertise while creating opportunities to expand domestic production and retain more value from its natural resources.
He also tasked the ambassadors with identifying investors whose interests align with Ghana’s development agenda and building relationships with institutions that can support skills development, research and technology transfer.
The President urged the envoys to follow through on investment proposals and agreements, identify obstacles early and work with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant institutions to ensure that diplomatic engagements produce practical outcomes.
He said Ghana must engage the changing international environment with confidence while protecting its freedom to make decisions in its own interest and building partnerships that strengthen its ability to compete globally.
The BRICS grouping brings together major emerging economies and provides a platform for cooperation on economic and development issues. Ghana’s application for partnership forms part of the government’s stated effort to broaden its international relationships and deepen cooperation with developing economies.
President Mahama charged the ambassadors to keep Ghana’s interests at the centre of their work and ensure that international partnerships deliver tangible benefits for the country through trade expansion, investment, industrial development and employment.
Richard Aniagyei, ISD
