The Minister for Works and Housing, Hon. Francis Asenso-Boakye has extended Ghana’s profound appreciation to the Chinese Government for the unwavering diverse support towards the development of Ghana over the years. The Minister noted that China’s support to Ghana in the areas of education, health, road infrastructure, defense, agriculture, communication, and fisheries, has helped shape Ghana’s socio-economic development.
Speaking on behalf of the Government at the 74th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China yesterday in Accra, Hon. Asenso-Boakye recounted some of the recent support, notable amongst them is China’s pivotal role in securing the $3 billion Extended Credit Facility from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). This, the Minister noted, underscores China’s commitment to being a reliable development partner to Ghana, in both favourable and challenging periods. “The loan facility would restore confidence in the Ghanaian economy and pave the way for sustainable economic growth and development.” He added.
The Minister also highlighted the involvement of the Chinese Government to establish a $100m Cocoa Processing at Sefwi Wiawso in the Western North Region through a partnership between Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), China Development Fund and Genertec International Corporation. The project, the Minister stated, will align with Ghana’s policy of value addition to raw materials by processing raw cocoa into semi-finished products for export and thereby increase Ghana’s cocoa production.
The Minister further expressed hope for stronger relations between Ghana and China, driven by people-to-people interactions founded on principles of sincerity, mutual trust, and respect. He reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to the “One-China principle” and looked forward to the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) as an opportunity to deepen the partnership between China and Africa.
He therefore congratulated President Xi Jinping, the Government, and the people of China on the occasion of their National Day Celebration and assured them of Ghana’s continuous effort to create an enabling environment for Chinese businesses to thrive in Ghana.
The Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, H. E. Lu Kun reiterated the bilateral relationship between China and Ghana and indicated that both nations have steadfastly supported each other, safeguarding shared interests to promote progress and prosperity.
The Ambassador expressed satisfaction of the strength with the bilateral relationship and said the relations will continue to bring prosperity to the respective peoples and serve as an exemplary partnership in building a community with a shared future for mankind.
The event was attended by esteemed dignitaries, including H. E. Maher Kheir, Dean of the Diplomatic Corp and Lebanese Ambassador to Ghana and Her Excellency Samira Bawumia, Second Lady of the Republic of Ghana.