Ghana, U.S. Deepen Diplomatic, Trade, and Security Cooperation — Foreign Minister Ablakwa.
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Hon. Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, says Ghana–United States relations are recording renewed momentum following a productive meeting with the Acting U.S. Ambassador to Ghana, H.E. Rolf Olson.
In a statement shared after the meeting, Hon. Ablakwa highlighted several recent gains in bilateral relations. These include the restoration of 5-year visas for Ghanaian travelers, the removal of former President Trump’s 15% tariffs on cocoa, semi-processed cocoa, and qualifying agricultural exports, and ongoing arrangements to support Ghanaian and international football fans ahead of World Cup events.
He further confirmed that Ghana was not affected by last week’s U.S. Green Card Review and immigration suspension policy, describing the exemption as an important diplomatic achievement.
The Foreign Minister also announced enhanced cooperation in the area of security. Under the existing Ghana–United States Defence Cooperation Agreement, the two nations have increased intelligence sharing, joint training exercises, and coordinated operations involving U.S. military aviation assets. He stressed that all aviation activities will continue to be carried out strictly in coordination with Ghana’s authorized government institutions.
On trade, Hon. Ablakwa expressed optimism about the ongoing AGOA (African Growth and Opportunity Act) negotiations, noting that Ghana is working toward an outcome that supports the country’s long-term economic and export goals.
He reaffirmed that Ghana’s diplomatic engagements with the U.S. will always be anchored in securing the best outcomes for the Ghanaian people, adding that the country’s strategic national interest remains the guiding principle of the Foreign Ministry.
