Ghana and China elevate bilateral ties to strategic partnership

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Chinese President Xi Jinping have announced the elevation of China-Ghana relations to a strategic partnership.

The declaration was made during a meeting at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing on Thursday, as Akufo-Addo attended the 2024 Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation.

President Xi highlighted Ghana’s long-standing diplomatic relationship with China, which dates back 64 years, making it the second sub-Saharan African nation to establish ties with the People's Republic of China. He praised the enduring friendship between the two nations, despite changes in the global landscape.

Xi expressed China’s readiness to build on this relationship by enhancing political trust and expanding cooperation across various sectors. He emphasized China’s commitment to being a reliable friend and partner to Ghana, collaborating on mutual development and supporting Ghana’s growth.

Xi also pledged to align China’s development strategies with Ghana and to continue providing assistance to the country. He outlined plans to strengthen cooperation in agriculture, fisheries, energy, mineral resources, and infrastructure. Additionally, he urged Ghana to maintain support for Chinese enterprises and citizens operating within the country.

In his remarks, President Akufo-Addo described China as Ghana’s most dependable ally over the past six decades. He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to the one-China policy and support for China's stance on key international issues, including human rights.

President Akufo-Addo expressed gratitude for China’s ongoing investment and cooperation, which have played a crucial role in Ghana's economic and social development. He voiced a desire to deepen collaboration in key areas such as electricity, minerals, and renewable energy, and assured China of Ghana’s readiness to facilitate the activities of Chinese businesses.

President Akufo-Addo also praised President Xi’s 10-point partnership proposal aimed at advancing modernization between China and Africa, pledging Ghana’s commitment to implementing these initiatives and reinforcing their strong partnership.