President John Dramani Mahama has set off on a diplomatic tour to Bamako, Mali, to enhance Ghana's bilateral relations with West African neighbors. The visit is opportune because regional security, economic cooperation, and the geopolitical fate of the Sahel states are among the most pertinent topics in international affairs. In a meeting with Malian Transitional President General Assimi Goïta, President Mahama reiterated Ghana's desire to deepen trade, security collaboration, and Pan-Africanism in the context of changing regional dynamics.
President Mahama's visit is an indication of the long-standing historical relationship between Ghana and Mali that goes back to the days of Presidents Modibo Keïta and Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. He reaffirmed the two countries' long friendship and appreciated President Goïta for the presence of Mali at his inauguration as president, terming it a gesture of goodwill and solidarity
The problem of economic integration and development of trade was the focus of the debate, and President Mahama emphasized that the free movement of persons and free trade were necessary in the sub-region. President Mahama reiterated Ghana's commitment to the development of its transit trade, removal of obstacles to trade, and intensification of economic integration between the two countries.
Regional security matters, including terrorism and insurgency, were of special interest. Both presidents were attempting to enhance cooperation on security, particularly under the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), in a bid to enhance regional stability.
Addressing the state of ECOWAS-Sahel relations, President Mahama acknowledged Mali’s exit from the regional bloc but stressed the need for continued diplomatic engagements to maintain unity. He advocated for dialogue to reconcile Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger with ECOWAS, emphasizing their shared history and collective future.
The summit also revived the stalled Technical Joint Cooperation agreement, which was initiated in 2011. President Mahama called for its revival as a way of solving trade and diplomatic problems between both nations. President Mahama, during the visit, met with the Ghanaian community in Bamako to deliberate on issues affecting their well-being.
He also honored Ghana's first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, by visiting his historic monument in the city center of Bamako. The leadership of Mali commended President Mahama's leadership and Pan-African spirit, acknowledging his efforts towards regional diplomacy and African unity.
His diplomatic visit is ongoing in Niamey, Niger, and Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, where he further reinforces Ghana's relationships with West African countries.
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