Defence Minister Calls for Stronger Ghana-France Cooperation in Security and Cybersecurity
The Minister for Defence, Kenneth Gilbert Adjei, has called for stronger cooperation between Ghana and France in defence, cybersecurity, and efforts to combat illegal small-scale mining.
He stated this when the French Ambassador to Ghana, Her Excellency Diarra Dime-Labille, visited him on Wednesday at his office in Accra.
The meeting focused on strengthening the longstanding defence relations between Ghana and France and exploring new areas of cooperation to enhance Ghana’s security capabilities.
During the meeting, the minister expressed appreciation to the Government of France for its continued support to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), and Ghana’s efforts to address the menace of illegal small-scale mining.
He cited France’s assistance in the acquisition of the Airbus Helicopter, as well as its support to the Ghana Navy in securing the Gulf of Guinea through joint exercises, visits by French naval vessels, and professional training for Ghanaian military personnel.
The Minister also acknowledged the intervention of a French Navy Ship during a recent piracy attack in Ghanaian waters, describing the support as an important demonstration of the strong security partnership between the two countries.
He disclosed that negotiations were at an advanced stage for the French shipbuilding company, OCEA, to construct a Fast Patrol Vessel for the Ghana Navy, with support from the French Government.
The Defence Minister further appealed for enhanced cooperation in cybersecurity, stressing the need to strengthen Ghana’s capacity to protect critical systems and infrastructure against emerging cyber threats.
For her part, Ambassador Dime-Labille congratulated Mr Adjei on his appointment and reaffirmed France’s commitment to deepening bilateral defence and security cooperation with Ghana.
She underscored the longstanding relationship between the two countries and expressed France’s readiness to identify new areas of collaboration to strengthen the partnership.
The Ambassador also highlighted the importance of French language training within the Ghana Armed Forces, noting that more than 10 French language centres were operating across GAF garrisons.
She reaffirmed France’s willingness to support the continuous training and professional development of GAF officers, particularly as part of efforts to further deepen defence cooperation and strengthen professional ties between the two countries.
Judith Twumwaa, ISD
